Abstract: The improved free electron laser device for scanning a spatial field is generally comprised of a drift tube and a rotatable mandrel. The mandrel is concentrically disposed in the tube so as to define an annular space therebetween. A series of canted mirrors of grooved-like configuration are formed about the mandrel in predetermined spaced relationship to each other and at a predetermined angle to a plane transverse of the mandrel. These mirrors function to reflect and phase redistribute various waves of the wave front so as to form a plurality of asymmetric diffraction patterns in the annular space. By reason of the nutating effect of the canted and rotating mirrors, the projected beam conically and continuously scans a region of the spatial field. In order to minimize the effect of skew waves, a series of circumferentially spaced and longitudinally extending rib-like baffles can be affixed to the tube interior between adjoining mirrors.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
July 2, 1984
Date of Patent:
September 24, 1985
Assignee:
The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy