Uniform Diode Laser Illuminator

Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) proposes to develop a novel, hand-held, IR illuminator with the capability of producing beams of variable divergence angles. We offer two complementary approaches that will be thoroughly tested in Phase I. One approach is based upon a novel reflective optic that transforms non-uniform light beams into a highly uniform beam (>90% uniform). This approach is based upon previous work at PSI that developed a uniform illuminator for solar power applications This design will be modified to provide an IR illuminator with the following advantages: . Hand-held operation . Variable divergence angle . Can combine several diode lasers . Highly uniform beamsPSI also proposes to use a complementary lens based approach to produce high power beams (500 mW) with a beam divergence of 2-3 mr. We will complete designs using a previously verified ray tracing code, and construct and test final designs. Our approach has considerable market potential for both the Goverment and commercial sectors. We have already established a commercial Phase III partner, and they will participate in the Phase I program.