Multi-Band Eyesafe NIR Laser for HEL Applications Navy SBIR FY2010.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2010.2 Topic No.: N102-137 Topic Title: Multi-Band Eyesafe NIR Laser for HEL Applications Proposal No.: N102-137-0811 Firm: Accurate Automation Corporation 7001 Shallowford Road Chattanooga, Tennessee 37421-1716 Contact: Robert Rice Phone: (423) 894-4646 Web Site: http://www.accurate-automation.com Abstract: Accurate Automation Corporation (AAC) proposes to provide a source that can meet the requirements of this present solicitation using a technical approach based on recent breakthrough technology that has made it possible to design a scalable fiber optic laser that can operate in all of the low loss windows in the eyesafe NIR band. Based on a technique whereby the fiber core is doped by nanoparticles (NP) containing different rare earth ions, a single fiber can be made to behave as an independent amplifier at multiple signal wavelengths within these windows. Hence, a single wavelength band switchable and wavelength tunable source can meet the Phase I, II and III performance requirements. Moreover, the development of practical HEL sources in the NIR is converging on fiber optic lasers, so having a test source that can operate at all of the candidate eyesafe NIR fiber wavelengths is especially appropriate. High output power will be achieved by combining the output of several fiber amplifiers through a passive coherent combining technique. Benefits: Commercial and industrial applications are rapidly developing within non-eyesafe wavelength ranges despite the inconvenience and cost of eye hazard mitigation since the advantages of lasers for cutting, welding, precision machining and material processing are so compelling. The availability of an efficient high power alternative laser source in the eyesafe NIR would accelerate the development and deployment of commercial, medical and industrial systems operating in this band. The capability to switch easily between NIR sub-bands will allow operators to exploit the best properties of each for specific tasks. Return