Sample interview questions: Can you describe some common techniques for beam shaping and control in laser systems?
Sample answer:
- Apertures and Slits:
- Utilize apertures or slits to select the desired beam shape and size.
- Apertures block portions of the beam, creating a more defined profile.
-
Slits allow only a narrow section of the beam to pass through, resulting in a line-shaped beam.
-
Beam Expanders:
- Increase the beam diameter to reduce power density and improve beam quality.
- Consists of a telescope-like arrangement of lenses or mirrors.
-
Expands the beam while maintaining its shape and divergence.
-
Beam Attenuators:
- Reduce the beam power without significantly altering its shape.
- Employ neutral density filters or variable attenuators.
-
Useful for applications requiring precise power control.
-
Collimators:
- Correct beam divergence and transform it into a collimated beam with minimal divergence.
- Typically consist of a lens or mirror followed by an aperture.
-
Used in applications where a parallel beam is necessary.
-
Beam Splitters:
- Divide a single beam into mult… Read full answer