Design of a gradient-index beam shaping system via a genetic algorithm optimization method

Neal C. Evans; David L. Shealy

doi:10.1117/12.405265

25 October 2000 Design of a gradient-index beam shaping system via a genetic algorithm optimization method

Neal C. Evans, David L. Shealy

Proceedings Volume 4095, Laser Beam Shaping; (2000) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.405265
Event: International Symposium on Optical Science and Technology, 2000, San Diego, CA, United States

Abstract

Geometrical optics - the laws of reflection and refraction, ray tracing, conservation of energy within a bundle of rays, and the condition of constant optical path length - provides a foundation for design of laser beam shaping systems. This paper explores the use of machine learning techniques, concentrating on genetic algorithms, to design laser beam shaping systems using geometrical optics. Specifically, a three-element GRIN laser beam shaping system has been designed to expand and transform a Gaussian input beam profile into one with a uniform irradiance profile. Solution to this problem involves the constrained optimization of a merit function involving a mix of discrete and continuous parameters. The merit function involves terms that measure the deviation of the output beam diameter, divergence, and irradiance from target values. The continuous parameters include the distances between the lens elements, the thickness, and radii of the lens elements. The discrete parameters include the GRIN glass types from a manufacturer's database, the gradient direction of the GRIN elements (positive or negative), and the actual number of lens elements in the system (one to four).

Citation Download Citation

Neal C. Evans and David L. Shealy "Design of a gradient-index beam shaping system via a genetic algorithm optimization method", Proc. SPIE 4095, Laser Beam Shaping, (25 October 2000); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.405265

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