Short Pulse Nd: YAG Laser for Optical Fuze Applications.
Abstract
The neodymium:yttrium aluminum garnet laser system for potential use in optical proximity fuze systems has been investigated. The baseline source requirements are pulse width in the 10-ns range, repetition rate greater than 1 kHz, and peak power of 100 W or more. The output capabilities of four different modulation techniques have been considered. These systems include Q-switching, cavity dumping, double Q-switching, and mode locking. Both continuously pumped and flash-lamp pumped systems were considered, and the experimental agreement with the presented theory was good. This investigation showed that three of the system did not meet the baseline requirements. Q-switching was eliminated because of repetition rate limitations in the flash-lamp pumped system and pulse width limitations in the continuously pumped system. Double Q-switching was eliminated for the same reasons. Mode locking was discarded because the pulse width is too narrow and the peak power is too low. The continuously pumped cavity dumped system is the only one that can meet the baseline requirements. A possible continuously pumped system using laser diodes to pump the laser rod also could meet the requirements. A careful evaluation of these systems with respect to space, power requirements, and cost would be required to determine the practicability of these systems in any particular fuze system.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA099042
Entities
People
- Joseph Nemarich
- Ronald Wellman
Organizations
- Harry Diamond Laboratories