Laser Assemblies

Many high power laser diode purchasers buy diode-based products and then struggle integrating them into their own systems. A common approach for the system manufacturer is to design the system first and then try to find a laser diode solution that matches the design. They then often experience issues in the following areas:

• Thermal management

• Optics/beam shaping

• Drive control electronics

These problems add cost, impair performance, cause delays, and can put customers in adversarial relationships with their laser diode suppliers. In the worst case, improper specification or integration can mean the difference between a successful prototype or product line and one that either never makes it to production or is out-gunned by a better designed competitive product once it goes to market.

At AKELA, we start with the source—the laser diode. We then learn how our customers want to use our devices and design a complete solution—thermally, optically, electronically. This holistic approach ensures a successful design that meets customer requirements. This approach includes the following design elements:

Lasers

Our designs are based on telecom structures that provide high power, brightness, and long life (MTBF).  Our design capability spans the visible (375nm to 730nm) and near infrared (750nm to 1080nm) based on gallium arsenide and through the indium phosphide region (1200nm to over 2 microns).

Thermal management

We use the latest in hard solder techniques to mount our diode lasers on thermal expansion matched sub-mounts. Sophisticated thermal modeling ensures that the final package and cooling approach (either passive or water-cooled) can handle the thermal loads generated by our customers’ operating conditions and environments.

Drivers and controllers

We can custom design laser drivers and TEC controllers and integrate them into our products, reducing system costs and footprints and ensuring proper safety and operating conditions for the lasers.

Optics

AKELA models optics to determine a range of solutions that result in the desired spot size, beam shape or collimation. Spectral narrowing and wavelength stabilization is achieved through the use of Volume Bragg Gratings (VBGs).

Packaging

AKELA uses CAD software to design the optimal opto-mechanical packaging solution to meet size, cost, thermal and environmental requirements, including submarine, airborne, space, and high g-force operating conditions.