Fiber Array cooling&holding Management System (FRAME) for HP Fiber Laser Apps

ABSTRACT: To address the Air Force need to accurately hold and cool the end of a high power fibers used in (>1 kW) fiber amplifiers, Optonicus proposes the development of the FibeR Array Cooling and Holding Management SystEm (FRAME) for high power laser applications. The FRAME system is based on a new circularly symmetric cooling configuration that combines the functions of fiber fixation and cooling in a integrated design. The circular symmetry and material used solve the problems of stress and the subsequent polarization effects generated by current V-groove based approaches. The architecture proposed is scalable from single to multiple fiber configurations. An active control technology is used enable tilt in two dimensions making the system useful for close packed arrays of fibers in HEL beam director applications. In Phase I, Optonicus will develop a proof of concept design, including materials development, for a single fiber FRAME and verify packaging using thermal and mechanical finite element analysis modeling. In Phase II, Optonicus will build a deliverable prototype of the FRAME system for a single fiber, which will be validated and delivered to AFRL/RDLA for evaluation. Optonicus will also present designs for multiple fiber FRAME. BENEFIT: The Optonicus FRAME system will enable scalability of fiber arrays at high power without adverse thermal effects and provide actuated tilt control. Successful completion of the FRAME system development will bring benefits to military HEL weapon systems enabling high power systems to be developed. Commercial applications include high power laser welding, cutting and materials processing.