Low-Cost, Compact, Weapons-Quality, Q-Switched Laser for Ordnance System

Schwartz Electro-Optics, Inc. (SEO) proposes a Phase I study program for a Q-switched solid state laser suitable for advanced warhead" applications. It is recognized by the Navy and SEO that most existing laser technology using active Q-switches (electro-optics, acousto-optics, rotating mirror devices) increase the size, complexity and cost of the laser beyond the practical limits for a one shot laser initiation application. Also, these types of lasers preclude the option of coating an output coupler directly on the laser rod. SEO, with the help of Dr. Michael Bass's group at the Center for Research and Education in Electro-Optics and Lasers (CREOL), proposes to apply the recent techniques of self Q-switched solid state lasers for this application. Thus, we propose a monolithic (laser medium, Q-switch and resonator mirrors on laser rod) device called All in One Laser Rod (AOLR). In the Phase I program, theoretical analysis for the AOLR approach will be performed at CREOL. The theoretical model will be verified by conducting laboratory experiments at SEO. Based on the model and experiments, a preliminary AOLR design for a low-cost, compact, weapons-quality laser suitable for ordnance system will be developed in the Phase I program.