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Method and apparatus for focussing laser beams

Patent ·
OSTI ID:7262181
A method of focusing a laser beam is described having a ring-shaped cross-section to provide a depth of focus for use in cutting and the like, in which the laser beam is converged to and through a focus by reflection from a concave mirror, and in which the diverging laser beam emanating from the focus is passed into an axicon having a substantially cylindrical inner reflective surface for reflecting the diverging laser beams back to an elongated focus. In its apparatus form, focusing means are provided together with a substantially cylindrical axicon positioned to intercept said diverging laser beam and to bring it back to a focus along an extended axis. The cylindrical axicon is preferably formed from a pair of telescoped tubular members having a closed annular space therein for receiving a cooling fluid, with the inner cylinder having its inner surface highly polished and/or coated with some material to minimize the absorption of the incident laser beam.
Assignee:
Catapillar Tractor Co.
Patent Number(s):
US 3972599
OSTI ID:
7262181
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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