Optimization of thin-disk laser pump scheme for enhanced efficiency

We introduce novel pump layouts for thin-disk lasers that maximize the number of passes while maintaining a fixed pump module size and moderate pump source quality. These advanced layouts are based on a nested multi-pass optical system, achieved by adding a series of deflecting prism pairs to ensure a uniform and compact beam distribution. This innovative approach not only increases the number of pump passes but also significantly enhances the overall efficiency of the laser system. As a result, it becomes feasible to use active materials with lower absorption rates, which are typically challenging to employ in standard designs. The main advantage of our method lies in its ability to minimize the typical increases in overall size and the stringent pump source quality requirements that are often associated with conventional multi-pass pump designs. By optimizing the optical arrangement, we ensure that the enhanced performance does not come at the expense of increased system complexity or footprint. This makes our design particularly suitable for industrial applications where space, cost, and reliability are critical factors. Furthermore, the use of commercially available pump optics, combined with the additional deflecting prism pairs, provides a practical and scalable solution that can be readily implemented. Our novel pump layouts thus offer a significant advancement in thin-disk laser technology, paving the way for more efficient and compact laser systems that can meet the demands of various industrial applications.