Patent ID: 7324571
Filing Date: 2008-01-29
Classification: B23K,H01S

Abstract:
1. A method for laser processing a workpiece using an optically pumped solid state laser apparatus having a rated CW output power of about 100 W or more, the method comprising: modulating an optical pump to directly generate a modulated laser output beam, wherein the step of modulating causes the pump to stimulate a waveguide, fiber, rod, or other solid state lasing element at a modulation frequency, the pump being controllable with a time varying electrical signal, and wherein output beam power varies at a frequency less than about 1.5 KHz in response to the time varying electrical signal; limiting at least one of diameter of the output beam and full angle beam divergence of the output beam to produce a beam quality of about 100 mm-mrad or better; focusing the output beam; and irradiating a surface of the workpiece with the focused output beam to modify a physical property of the workpiece.