Abstract: Damaged automobile windshields are removed using an array of laser diodes. The diodes are chosen to provide light energy at a wavelength to be focused on and absorbed by the ceramic layer coating the windshield edge and to which is bonded the adhesive layer which holds the windshield in place. In practice, the diode array is moved along the windshield edge directing light through the windshield at the ceramic layer. The laser array comprises a linear array of diodes, having a length to span the width of the adhesive band.

Abstract: A laser package includes a housing and a subassembly to which the critical components of the laser package are mounted. The subassembly is structured to preserve component alignment even in the presence of thermal excursions by ensuring that any movement which might occur effects all the components in a way to preserve alignment. The subassembly is easily removable from the housing and thus permits replacement if a failure should occur. A reverse laser diode is included to provide a path for reverse currents which otherwise would be damaging to the active laser diode.

Abstract: A laser device includes a glass optical fiber secured in position to capture light output from the laser. The fiber is secured in position with solder directly to the glass of the fiber without any metallization of the fiber. The solder-only technique satisfies the critical requirement for preventing fiber movement over the lifetime standard for laser device with multimade lasers and multimode fibers.