Abstract
The University of Central Florida invention is a quantum cascade laser (QCL) that uses waveguides with a continuously varying curvature to combine multiple inputs into a single output for increased brightness. The beam-combining configuration can produce multi-watt continuous wave (CW) optical power with a high beam quality. Using a novel waveguide architecture, the invention selects fundamental transverse mode operation in a tree-array quantum cascade laser.
Technical Details: The waveguides in the UCF technology are sufficiently sized to support multiple optical modes at the output wavelengths, and curved waveguide regions have a continuously varying radius of curvature configured to promote single-mode operation. The mode-selective aspect of the waveguide architecture enables wider ridge waveguides to maintain fundamental transverse mode operation at higher output powers. Fundamental mode operation, particularly near the emitting facet of the laser, enables a beam of high quality and brightness.
In some embodiments of the invention, the QCL may include multiple branched active waveguide regions, a stem waveguide region, and waveguide connectors to progressively couple light from the branched active waveguide regions to the stem waveguide region. The branched active regions may each include one or more laser cores formed as multilayer quantum cascade (QC) media and may be wide and/or deep enough to support multi-mode propagation at output wavelengths.
Partnering Opportunity: The research team is seeking partners for licensing, research collaboration, or both.
Benefit
Very high brightness platformNo degradation of the beam qualityWaveguide architectures that may be used to manufacture QCLs in high volume and at low costMarket Application
Infrared countermeasures, beacons and target designatorsProtect aircraft from heat-seeking missilesInfrared illuminationHyperspectral imaging
Brochure
