Photoconductive antennas are at the forefront of THz source technology, and the Large-Aperture Photoconductive Antenna (LAPCA) can generate intense THz pulses with peak fields surpassing 100 kV/cm. Despite the unique properties of these generated THz pulses—such as high THz field asymmetry, low central frequency around 100 GHz, and a significant ponderomotive potential—the widespread adoption of LAPCAs has been hindered by limitations in peak intensity and their fragility. In this paper, we discuss recent advancements in wide bandgap semiconductor LAPCAs featuring an interdigitated structure, facilitating the shaping of intense THz pulses with various waveforms, ranging from asymmetric quasi-half-cycle to symmetric single-cycle pulses and allowing for tunable polarization. Additionally, we explore the nonlinear interaction of these pulses with an n-doped InGaAs thin film, where we report, for the first time, high-frequency generation.
We develop single-pixel imaging accelerated via swept aggregate patterns (SPI-ASAP) that combines a digital micromirror device with laser scanning hardware to achieve pattern projection rates of up to 14.1 MHz and tunable frame sizes of up to 101×103 pixels. Meanwhile, leveraging the structural properties of S-cyclic matrices, a lightweight CS reconstruction algorithm, fully compatible with parallel computing, is developed for real-time video streaming at 100 frames per second (fps). SPI-ASAP allows reconfigurable imaging in both transmission and reflection modes, dynamic imaging under strong ambient light, and offline ultrahigh-speed imaging at speeds of up to 12,000 fps.
KEYWORDS: 3D projection, 3D image processing, Fringe analysis, Distortion, Cameras, Digital micromirror devices, Phase unwrapping, 3D metrology, 3D modeling
Dynamic three-dimensional (3D) surface imaging using phase-shifting fringe projection profilometry is currently driven by industrial manufacturing, archaeological inspection, and entertainment. However, existing techniques cannot simultaneously provide the robustness in solving spatially isolated 3D objects, the tolerance of large variation in surface reflectance, and the flexibility of tunable working distances with a cubic meter (m3)-level measurement volume at video rate. To overcome these limitations, we have developed multi-scale band-limited illumination profilometry (MS-BLIP). MS-BLIP implements multi-frequency fringe projection with the associated phase unwrapping, which enables robust 3D imaging of spatially isolated objects. Meanwhile, MS-BLIP adopts dual-level intensity projection to enhance its dynamic range, which allows recovering 3D information from surfaces with large reflectance variation. Moreover, MS-BLIP applies a newly developed iterative method for distortion compensation, which improves the 3D reconstruction quality over a cubic-meter-level measurement volume. Finally, a dove prism is used to adjust the orientation of the field of view, which helps MS-BLIP fit different experimental scenarios. With a measurement volume of up to 1.5 m3 and a working distance of up to 2.8 m, MS-BLIP showcases the video-rate 3D surface imaging of full human-body movements.
Using a ZnSe large aperture photoconductive antenna with a specific electrode structure, we demonstrate the generation of intense, sub-cycle terahertz (THz) pulses with variable elliptical polarization and peak fields above 80 kV/cm. The electrode structure is composed of six units, where three units have interdigitated horizontal electrodes, and the other three units have an interdigitated structure with vertical electrodes. The units with horizontal and vertical electrodes are positioned alternatively onto the antenna, allowing the generation of two quasi-half-cycle THz pulses with orthogonal polarization. A time delay between the two THz pulses is introduced by a phase-delay mask covering only the parts of the antenna with horizontal electrodes. By changing the mask thicknesses, we can control on demand, the polarization state of the THz pulses from linear polarization to elliptical to circular polarization over a quarter of a THz cycle.
KEYWORDS: Photography, Digital micromirror devices, Imaging systems, Cameras, Calibration, Binary data, 3D metrology, 3D image processing, Stereoscopy, Projection systems
We report single-pixel three-dimensional (3D) dual photography. Inspired by a tri-linkage between single-pixel imaging, fringe projection profilometry (FPP), and dual photography, we propose a method for 3D imaging that allows for the synthesis of dual and relit images in a camera-free context. By using FPP calibration methods and implementing a direct coordinate mapping with phase shifting, we obtain highly efficient measurements of the direct component of the scene light transport matrix, while simultaneously sensing the surface profiles of 3D objects. Through the addition of calibration information and by exploiting Helmholtz reciprocity, dual photography and scene relighting can thus be performed on 3D images. To verify the proposed imaging method, we have developed a light-path symmetric single-pixel imaging system based on two digital micromirror devices (DMDs). As a benefit of this choice of imaging platform, the traditionally distinct roles of projector and camera hardware can be freely interchanged, depending only on the DMD hardware chosen for the deployment of modulation patterns. For the acquisition of images, binary cyclic S-matrix patterns and binary sinusoidal fringe patterns are loaded onto each DMD for scene encoding and virtual fringe projection, respectively. Using this system, we further demonstrate the broadening of traditional dual photography image synthesis to viewing and relighting of 3D images at user-selectable perspectives. Our work extends the conceptual scope and the imaging capability of dual photography.
High-speed three-dimensional (3D) surface imaging by structured-light profilometry is currently driven by industrial needs, medical applications, and entertainment. However, the limitation of pattern projection speed has prevented the structured illumination to reach the kilohertz (kHz) level. The limited bandwidth of the data transmission has prevented the camera from streaming data continuously, which thus has brought difficulties in kHz-level image acquisition, processing, and display of 3D information during the occurrence of dynamic events (i.e., in real time). Besides, the tradeoff between the camera’s sensor readout rate and the activated pixel numbers has strained the existing methods from reaching a large field of view (FOV) at kilohertz (kHz)-level acquisition. To overcome these limitations, we have developed highspeed band-limited illumination profilometry (BLIP) in two configurations. The first configuration, employing a single camera with a CoaXPress interface (CI), enables real-time 3D surface information reconstruction at 1 kHz. The second configuration, employing two cameras with a CI, uses temporally interlaced acquisition (TIA) to improves the 3D imaging over 1000 frames per second on a field of view (FOV) of up to 180×130 mm2 (corresponding to 1180×860 pixels) in captured images. We have demonstrated the systems’ performance by imaging various static and fast-moving 3D objects. CI-BLIP has been applied to fluid mechanics by imaging dynamics of a flag, which allowed observation of the wave propagation, gravity-induced phase mismatch, and asymmetric flapping motion. Meanwhile, TIA-BLIP has empowered the 3D visualization of glass vibration induced by sound. We expect BLIP systems to find diverse scientific and industrial applications.
We propose a bandwidth-limited imaging system based on a digital micromirror device (DMD) for three-dimensional (3D) structured light profilometry. By using an error diffusion algorithm with optical low-pass filtering, we obtain high-quality sinusoidal fringe patterns without mirror dithering. An N-step phase-shifting algorithm is then used to recover depth information from objects. Using our bandwidth-limited projector, we demonstrate 3D profilometry of a static object.
Publisher’s Note: This paper, originally published on 12 July 2016, was replaced with a corrected/revised version on 26 July 2016. If you downloaded the original PDF but are unable to access the revision, please contact SPIE Digital Library Customer Service for assistance.
We have developed a terahertz time domain spectroscopy system (THz TDS). For THz generation, optical rectification process and for detection, electro-optic sampling processes are used. Identical < 110 > cut ZnTe crystals are used for both generation and detection of THz radiation.This spectroscopy system can be used for the noninvasive and contactless electrical and optical characterizations of various samples. In this work spectroscopic measurements of pure, Chromium and Indium doped GaSe crystals within 0.4 THz to 3 THz range are taken by the developed set-up to study the dielectric response of the samples.
Nonlinear dynamics of free-carriers in direct bandgap semiconductors at terahertz (THz) frequencies is studied using
intense few-cycle pulses. Techniques as Z-scan, THz-pump / THz-probe, and optical-pump/ THz-probe are employed to
explore nonlinear interactions in both n-doped and photoexcited systems. The physical mechanism that gives rise to such
interactions is found to be intervalley scattering.
We demonstrate high spatial resolution imaging of a stromal cut in the ex-vivo pig
cornea, using second- and third-harmonic generation microscopy. From these images,
we see in detail how the cut affects the corneal layers. In the beginning of the cut, the
anterior layers, in which the blade is passing through, are disorganized, which could
explain the shadows observed on the images. In the stroma, the cut can be imaged by
third harmonic microscopy, probably due to the χ3 contrast. Although the current
results were obtained from the healthy ex-vivo cornea, it already allows one to
understand the effects of the cut on the tissue characteristics (such as scattering).
Advanced imaging methods are essential tools for improved outcome of refractive surgery. Second harmonic generation
(SHG) and third harmonic generation (THG) microscopy are noninvasive high-resolution imaging methods, which can
discriminate the different layers of the cornea, thus having strong impact on the outcome of laser surgery. In this work,
we use an Ytterbium femtosecond laser as the laser source, the longer wavelength of which reduces scattering, and
allows simultaneous SHG and THG imaging.
We present SHG and THG images and profiles of pig corneas that clearly show the anterior surface of the cornea, the
entry in the stroma and its end, and the posterior surface of the cornea. These observations allow localizing the
epithelium, the stroma and the endothelium. Other experiments give information about the structure and cytology of the
corneal layers.
The results of variation of the high-order harmonic distribution generating from the manganese plasma plume are presented. Harmonic plateau was extended from the 31st order, at the intensities below the barrier suppression intensity for singly charged Mn ions, to the 101st one (λ = 7.9 nm), at higher intensities, highest ever observed in plasma HHG studies. The second plateau appearance for the harmonics exceeding 31st order was observed in this case, while the low-order harmonic plateau was decreased or completely disappeared, with only plasma lines dominating for the wavelength region above 27.6 nm. Origin of the harmonics appearing at the second plateau was attributed to the interaction of intense laser field with doubly charged manganese ions.
Systematic investigation of ablation harmonics are performed for silver and indium targets, using the 40 mJ, 25 fs output
from the Advanced Laser Light Source. Optimum pre-pulse and main pulse conditions for ablation harmonics are
studied.
Current activities on our research of soft X-ray lasers and higher harmonic generations using intense, subpicosecond lasers are reviewed. Especially for soft X-ray lasers we experimentally demonstrate that by longitudinally pumping 2-mm-long molybdenum preformed plasma with high-intensity 475 fs duration laser pulse, a highly directive soft-X-ray laser at 18.9 nm wavelength is generated. The divergence of the beam is evaluated to be of the submillirad order, and only requires pump laser energy of 150 mJ. Simulations show that the pedestal in the main pump pulse can generate electron density and gain profiles with large spatial gradients, which result in the selective amplification of low-order transverse modes. The present result is the demonstration of an efficient and alternative method of improving the spatial coherence of X-ray lasers with amplified spontaneous emission medium, with possibilities of becoming an excellent tool to explore various application experiments. In higher harmonic generation, topics related to observation of blue shift due to collisionless absorption process is described.
Ultrashort laser pulses are very promising tools for performing accurate dissection in the eye, especially in the corneal stroma. The development of eye femtosurgery requires basic knowledge about laser-tissue interaction. One of the most significant parameters is the ablation threshold, the minimal laser energy per unit surface required for ablation. We present here measurements of the femtosecond laser ablation threshold as a function of the pulse duration for two cornea layers (epithelium and stroma) using optical damage diagnosis. Experiments have been realized with the INRS Ti:Sapphire laser (60 fs-5000 fs, 800 nm, 10 Hz). Our experimental results are fitted with a model for laser-matter interaction in order to determine some intrinsic physical parameters
We demonstrate the generation of high harmonics (up to the 65th order, λ=12.24 nm) of a Ti:sapphire laser radiation after the propagation of femtosecond laser pulses through the low-excited boron plasma produced by a prepulse radiation on the surface of different targets. High-order harmonics generated from the surface plasma of most targets showed a plateau pattern. The harmonic generation in these conditions assumed to occur due to the interaction of femtosecond pulses with ions. The conversion efficiencies in the plateau region were varied between 10-7 to 8×10-5 depending on the target. The main contribution to the limitation of harmonic generation efficiency and cutoff energy was attributed to the free-electrons-induced self-defocusing of main pulse.
We demonstrate the first observation of significant resonance enhancement of a single high-order harmonic in the extreme ultraviolet region. Such intense harmonics are generated during the interaction of a femtosecond Ti:sapphire laser pulse with low-ionized indium ablation. A strong 13th harmonic (61.2 nm) with conversion efficiency of 8×10-5 and output intensity almost two orders of magnitude higher than neighbouring harmonics is demonstrated. Such an approach paves the way for efficient single-harmonic enhancement in the extreme ultraviolet range using different ablation sources.
We demonstrate two methods of high-order harmonic generation, which has the potential of generating high-order harmonics with high intensities. The first method is solid surface harmonics. Using the second harmonic output of the 10 TW, 60 fs Ti:sapphire laser system at the INRS, we have observed multiple soft x-ray harmonics of the 397 nm pump laser. The highest order (23rd harmonic at 17.3 nm) observed in our experiments are limited by the 17 nm absorption edge of the thick 1.6 μm Al foil, which is used to eliminate the high intensity pump laser. The second method is harmonics from an ablation plume generated using a relatively low intensity prepulse. We demonstrate the generation of up to the 63rd harmonics (λ=12.6 nm) of a Ti:sapphire laser pulse (150 fs, 10 mJ), using pre-pulse (210 ps, 24 mJ) produced boron plasma as the nonlinear medium. The influence of various parameters on the harmonic conversion efficiency was analyzed. Typical conversion efficiencies were evaluated to be between 10-4 (for third harmonic) and 10-7 (within the plateau range).
We investigated performance of ultrafast laser-based x-ray source for phase contrast imaging in 2D projection imaging and in enhanced micro-CT imaging. Good quality images were obtained, including images of small animals, in the single energy and multiple energy, in line phase-contrast enhancing geometry using x-ray line energy matching object thickness and density. Phase information has been inferred from images obtained at the same x-ray energy but at different object-to-detector distances and also from images obtained at the same object-to-detector distance but with different K-alpha line energies. Ultrafast laser-based, compact, x-ray source is a promising technique for micro-CT systems. Its utilization might result in faster scans with lower radiation dose, better spatial and contrast resolution and also femtosecond temporal resolution. In addition, it might allow practical implementation of dual-energy and phase-contrast imaging micro-CT that is not possible with conventional micro-CT.
In 1985, the discovery of chirped-pulse amplification (CPA) by G. Mourou and D. Strickland led to ultrashort and high energy pulse lasers. Since energy deposition of ultrashort pulses occurs with limited heat transfer and damages, potential applications of femtosecond lasers to corneal surgery are very promising. By focusing a femtosecond laser on a solid surface, matter is ablated and this process is strongly laser parameter dependent. The goal of the experiment presented here was to measure the femtosecond laser ablation thresholds for different corneal layers and hydrogels. Experiments have been realized with the INRS Ti:Sapphire laser (60fs-400ps, 800nm, 10Hz) and they constitute an initial step toward the development of a new type of high precision surgical tool for corneal microsurgery. Results will be compared to theoretical calculation for light-tissue interaction and propagation using the hydrodynamic code developed at INRS. Grant Identification: NSERC, FRSQ Research in Vision Network and China Scholarship 22836034.
Past works have used high-order harmonics in gas targets to demonstrate attosecond pulse generation. However, recent theoretical simulations have shown that solid-surface harmonics can also be used to produce attosecond pulses. Solid-surface harmonics are generated when a high-intensity femtosecond laser pulse irradiates a solid target surface at an oblique incidence angle. The conversion efficiency of this phenomenon increases rapidly with increasing pump laser intensity, and there is also no presently known upper limit in the pump intensity that can be used. Accordingly, this method possesses the potential for high-energy attosecond pulse generation. The main aim of this paper is to experimentally clarify the optimal conditions for highly efficient solid-surface harmonic generation. We demonstrate up to the 16th harmonic (49.1 nm wavelength) of a Ti:sapphire laser using modest pump intensities of 4×1016 W cm-2 irradiating a silicon wafer target. Investigations with low-order harmonics have revealed a large dependence of harmonic conversion efficiency on the target material. Furthermore, a drastic increase in the harmonic intensity has been observed by repetitively irradiating a metallic-coated target.
Simulations are performed to clarify the mechanisms that generate high spatial coherence x-ray lasers with the longitudinally pumped nickellike molybdenum scheme. Various factors that affect the x-ray laser output is also investigated, and we clarify the experimental conditions that maximize its performance.
We review the present status of our research on the generation of coherent soft x-ray radiation using high- intensity picosecond Nd:glass laser pulses. We adopt two completely different methods for this purpose, that is high- harmonic generation from solid-vacuum interfaces, and longitudinally pumped transient collisional excitation Ni- like Mo x-ray laser. Unexpected jetlike structures are observed in the visible emission of the longitudinally- pumped molybdenum plasma, extending over a length of several millimeters. Efficiency of harmonic generation from near- solid density plasma is found to increase by a factor of 2 to 3 when using prepulses.
The conditions necessary for large gain-length products in longitudinally-pumped Ni-like Mo x-ray lasers are clarified using a 1D hydrodynamics code. Ray tracing shows that for effective amplification within the high density ultra-high gain region, waveguides such as capillaries must be used. The effect of inhomogeneous pumping of the capillary on gain is also evaluated.
Investigations have been performed on the spatial distributions of high-order generation from solid surface plasmas. It is found that the divergence of the harmonics gradually increases at intensities between I(lambda) 2 equals 2 X 1015 and 2 X 1016 X cm-2 X micrometers 2 ps, 1054 nm laser pulse with typical maximum intensities of approximately 2 X 1017 W X cm-2. We experimentally observe that the divergence of the harmonics decreases as the order of the harmonic increases. We also measured that the divergence of the third harmonic emission is smaller for 2.2 ps width lasers as compared with those for 100 ps pulse width lasers.
Solid-state laser and x-ray laser research activities at the Institute for Solid State Physics of the University of Tokyo are reviewed. A description of the four-beam multi-TW neodymium- doped phosphate glass (Nd:Glass) laser system is given. Advanced laser research, such as the development of a table-top ultra-short pulse TW Nd:Glass system and phase conjugate system, are also reviewed. Studies on recombination pumped soft x-ray lasers with He-like ions are presently underway. Picosecond x-ray spectroscopy of laser produced aluminum plasmas revealed population inversions between the n equals 3 - 2 levels of He-like Al ions. Details on the first observation of amplification in a recombination pumped He-like soft x-ray laser, showing a time-resolved small-signal gain of 3 cm-1 for the 31D - 21P transition of He-like N, are also given.
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