Abstract:
We developed a rapid and efficient method for generating laser outputs with arbitrary shaped distributions and properties that are needed for a variety of applications. It is based on simultaneously controlling the intensity, phase, and coherence distributions of the laser. The method involves a digital degenerate cavity laser in which a phase-only spatial light
modulator and spatial filters are incorporated. As a result, a variety of unique and high-resolution arbitrary shaped laser
beams were generated with either a low or a high spatial coherence and with a minimal change in the laser output power.
By controlling the phase, intensity, and coherence distributions, a shaped laser beam was efficiently reshaped into a completely different shape after free space propagation. The generation of such laser beams could lead to new and interesting
applications.
