Abstract: Laser processing methods, systems and apparatus having a super-modulating power supply or pumping subsystem and high beam quality (i.e., brightness) are disclosed. The methods, systems and apparatus have significant benefits, improved operation characteristics and material processing capability over currently available methods, systems and apparatus. In at least one embodiment, the beam quality of a high power solid state laser is improved in the presence of thermal lensing. High power laser cutting, scribing, and welding results are improved with a combination of modulation and high beam quality while providing for improved processing speeds.

Abstract: A method and system for laser welding non-circular or non-concentric parts, such as catalytic converter components. The present invention provides a method (and corresponding system for carrying out the method), comprising: providing a part having sections to be welded together; rotating the part on a constant speed rotary; generating a laser beam; directing the laser beam onto a surface of the part to weld the sections of the part together; and controlling the laser beam such that an angle of incidence of the laser beam on the surface of the part remains constant, the laser beam remains in focus on the surface of the part, and the laser beam moves at a constant surface speed along the surface of the part as the part is rotated on the constant speed rotary.

Abstract: Methods and systems for laser-based processing of materials are disclosed wherein a scalable laser architecture, based on planar waveguide technology, provides for pulsed laser micromachining applications while supporting higher average power applications like laser welding and cutting. Various embodiments relate to improvements in planar waveguide technology which provide for stable operation at high powers with a reduction in spurious outputs and thermal effects. At least one embodiment provides for micromachining with pulsewidths in the range of femtoseconds to nanoseconds. In another embodiment, 100W or greater average output power operation is provided for with a diode-pumped, planar waveguide architecture.

Abstract: A solid state laser, includes laser rod tubes (10, 117) crimped onto each end of a laser rod (15, 121) with PTFE seal rings (25, 118) compressed between the laser rod and the laser rod tube. The compressed seal rings provide an improved leak tight seal in a laser pumping chamber. Each laser rod tube (10) provides a mounting and holding area (20) for supporting the laser rod ends therein while protecting and sealing the end faces of the laser rod. A swaging tool (40) and method for swaging the laser rod tube (10) onto the laser rod (15) to provide a compression fit are provided. The compression seal and swaging method are usable in a variety of leak tight sealing applications.

Abstract: For protecting a fibre optic conductor assembly from errant radiant energy, this invention provides a body mounted adjacent to an optical fibre so as to provide an alternate path for radiant energy adjacent to the path defined by the optical fibre, the body having a distal end which is angled so that radiant energy reaching the distal end undergoes total-internal-reflection so as to be re-directed out of the body and away from the optical fibre.