Modeling of Gaussian Beam Ensemble Flat-tops for Applications

The goal of this study is to demonstrate how a planar ensemble of Gaussian beams (TEM00) can be modeled to create flattop beams for laser applications. We employed the Gaussian Beam Propagation Method (GBPM) in the ASAP (BRO, Tucson AZ) computing and visualization environment in this endeavor. Our study revealed that ensemble individual beam's widths must be set at 1.6 mm, half-angle divergence cannot exceed.5 degrees. In addition, individual laser positions in the ensemble must be such that all ensemble Gaussian beams reach the target/detector in phase. Such beam manipulations are critical for many applications as they strive to customize industry de facto Gaussian laser beams into flattops. In addition, our study has demonstrated that beam flatness is achievable without the aid of dissipative optical entities.