For this process flow, we will follow the steps for sourcing a fully-custom laser beam expander designed for a customer’s application-specific needs.
Advanced Laser Applications Team determines application-specific requirements
Initial design and trade-off review done to evaluate potential technical solutions
Investigate if customizing off-the-shelf product is feasible to reduce lead times or whether a completely-custom design is required
A quotation could be included at this stage
A detailed optical and optomechanical design is created that builds off of the foundation created in the feasibility study
A full tolerancing analysis determines yield expectations
The design is optimized for manufacturability
Designs are completed for all components, coatings, and metal housing needed
All individual glass components are ground, polished, and coated
Metal optomechanical housing is machined and the full beam expander is assembled
Active alignment and other advanced assembly techniques employed when needed
In-process metrology such as interferometry, spectrophotometry, and laser beam caustic measurements done to verify specifications
The full assembly is tested to verify all specifications are met
Application-specific test beds developed when necessary to simulate use conditions
Testing available for transmitted wavefront error, beam profile, beam caustics, and energy on target at various laser wavelengths
Environmental testing for shock and vibration, water exposure, and temperature swings also available
Initial prototypes delivered, comprehensive first article inspection reports (FAIRs) for product qualification
Highly-flexible volume order servicing including support for blanket orders with scheduled releases
Competitive volume discounts
Continued dedicated engineering support to ensure project success
