Abstract: A laser machining apparatus machines a workpiece at uniform intensity by converting a CO2 laser beam to uniform intensity using an intensity-converting element and a phase-matching element. The optical transmission system is configured such that the starting point of the laser beam pointing vector and the exit face of the intensity-converting element are mutually conjugated with respect to the optical transmission system. This structure offers stable machining by ensuring that the laser beam always enters the intensity-converting element at its center, even if the pointing vector of the laser beam shifts.

Abstract: A laser machining apparatus machines a workpiece at uniform intensity by converting a CO2 laser beam to uniform intensity using an intensity-converting element and a phase-matching element. The optical transmission system is configured such that the starting point of the laser beam pointing vector and the exit face of the intensity-converting element are mutually conjugated with respect to the optical transmission system. This structure offers stable machining by ensuring that the laser beam always enters the intensity-converting element at its center, even if the pointing vector of the laser beam shifts.

Abstract: A microwave excited gas laser apparatus includes a single unit having at least first, second, third, and fourth waveguides. The first and second waveguides meet at a first intersection. The third and fourth waveguides meet at a second intersection. A discharge tube contains a laser medium gas, and extends through the first and second intersections. Microwaves are radiated into the first, second, third, and fourth waveguides. The discharge tube in the first intersection is exposed to a microwave propagated along the first waveguide and a microwave propagated along the second waveguide. The discharge tube in the second intersection is exposed to a microwave propagated along the third waveguide and a microwave propagated along the fourth waveguide.