Laser Beam Shaping: Theory and Techniques, Second Edition

Book Preface

At the time of the publication of the first edition of this book, there was a significant interest in laser beam shaping for industrial applications and research. A significant amount of this work was not published for proprietary reasons. At that time, people began to publish their work on beam shaping. The interest in laser beam shaping increased dramatically in the following years. This is due to the increase in the number of laser applications that can benefit from shaping the beam, the increase in research in laser beam shaping techniques and the corresponding increase in the literature, and the advances in optical component fabrication technology. The purpose of this edition is to update the book to include significant developments in laser beam shaping theory and techniques.

After the Introduction chapter, Chapter 2 presents the underlying electromagnetic theory and mathematical techniques applicable to beam shaping. This chapter is very fundamental and has one minor correction or change. Chapter 3 is a new chapter that presents the theory of optimal beam splitting gratings (fan-out gratings). Chapter 4 is a new chapter that addresses the theory and application of vortex beams. Chapter 5 (former Chapter 3) presents the diffraction approach to single-mode Gaussian beam shaping and includes experimental results. The major changes in this chapter are the inclusion of a new section on wavelength dependence of the problem and an expansion of Appendix B. The methods, theory, and application of geometrical optics are discussed in Chapter 6 (former Chapter 4). This chapter is expanded significantly to include the author’s research that was not available at the time of the first edition. Optimization-based techniques are presented in Chapter 7 (former Chapter 5). This chapter is greatly revised around the techniques based on the use of current optical software packages. Beam shaping using diffractive diffusers is introduced in Chapter 8 (former Chapter 6). This chapter is significantly revised. Chapter 9 is a new chapter that presents the theory of beam shaping based on the use of microlens diffusers. Multiaperture beam integration systems, including experiment and design, are presented in Chapter 10 (former Chapter 7). The major change in this chapter is the addition of a new section on channel integrators. Chapter 11 is a new chapter that discusses the generation of light ring patterns using axicons. This chapter includes a technique for the generation of rectangular line light patterns. Beam profile measurement technology is addressed in Chapter 12 (former Chapter 9). This chapter is significantly updated. Chapter 13 (former Chapter 8) discusses the application of geometrical optics methods to classical (nonlaser) shaping problems.

The material in these chapters gives the reader a working understanding of the fundamentals of laser beam shaping techniques. It also provides insight into the potential application of laser beam profile shaping in laser system design.

The book is intended primarily for optical engineers, scientists, and students who have a need to apply laser beam shaping techniques to improve laser processes.

It should be a valuable asset to someone who researches, designs, procures, or assesses the need for beam shaping with respect to a given application. Due to the broad treatment of theory and practice in the book, we think that it should also appeal to scientists and engineers in other disciplines.

I express my gratitude to the contributing authors whose efforts made the book possible. It was a pleasure working with the staff of Taylor & Francis Group books. Finally, I express my appreciation to the very helpful project coordinator, Laurie Schlags.

Fred M. Dickey
FMD Consulting, LLC