Abstract: A high-speed broadband tunable laser system is disclosed. In one illustrated embodiment, a microprocessor-controlled synchronous tunable laser system is disclosed having multiple tuning elements. The tuning elements can be individual birefringent crystals (such as potassium deuterated hydrogen phosphate) which exhibit electro-optic effects when electric field is applied. Two (or more) of such elements provide coarse and progressively finer control over the wavelength and linewidth. The appropriate voltage values for each element can be stored in a random access memory within a controller and retrieved immediately to obtain a desired wavelength within milliseconds without the scanning delays inherent in mechanical systems.

Abstract: A laser system is disclosed in which the laser medium is operated at high pressures, for example, at pressures of about 3 atmospheres or above, to yield high performance. High pressure operation is achieved by employing a two or more stage containment system. In one preferred embodiment, a first containment system, housing high voltage components, can be pressurized to about 2 atmospheres or more with a high dielectric constant gas to permit low inductance circuitry. The laser head assembly is encased within a second containment vessel and further pressurized to about 3 atmospheres or more. The laser head assembly can also include a flow nozzle and ventilated electrodes to reduce stagnant pockets and eddy currents in the circulating laser medium.

Abstract: A laser excitation system is disclosed in which the laser medium is preionized by a UV-generating spark array and is excited by an electric avalanche discharge. The preionized state is sustained during the discharge by a second spark array and an isolated discharge capacitance. In this manner, a continuous ionization state during discharge is achieved.

Abstract: An artificial hand device, particularly for use in robotics, comprises an assembly of substantially parallel pins mounted on a carrier so that the free ends of pins pressed against a given object may move axially to conform to the profile of the object. Means to move lateral surfaces of the pins laterally allows the device to grip the object. Means to detect pin position allows sensing of the shape of the object.

Abstract: A high energy KrCl laser for producing coherent radiation at 222 nm. Output energies on the order of 100 mJ per pulse are produced utilizing a discharge excitation source to minimize formation of molecular ions, thereby minimizing absorption of laser radiation by the active medium. Additionally, HCl is used as a halogen donor which undergoes a harpooning reaction with metastable Kr.sub.M * to form KrCl.

Abstract: A high energy XeBr laser for producing coherent radiation at 282 nm. The XeBr laser utilizes an electric discharge as the excitation source to minimize formation of molecular ions thereby minimizing absorption of laser radiation by the active medium. Additionally, HBr is used as the halogen donor which undergoes harpooning reactions with Xe.sub.M * to form XeBr*.