Stable mode-locked laser apparatus

Abstract

Embodiments of this invention are directed to a laser system configured to deliver a pulsed laser beam to a patient's eye. The system includes a laser engine comprising an optically-pumped laser oscillator configured with an extracavity waveplate, and an optional intracavity waveplate, that can be tilted and rotated to provide a limited range of wavelengths for laser mode excitation and to maintain stable mode-locked laser operation. In an embodiment, the present design includes an oscillator and a photosensor, such as a fast photodetector or an autocorrelator, positioned to receive a beam of laser light associated with the oscillator or laser engine, and a controller configured to receive readings from the photosensor and alter the laser gain provided within the oscillator to a level outside the bistable performance zone avoiding mode and gain competitions.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.