Basics of BeamXpertDESIGNER

BeamXpertDESIGNER uses two different modeling approaches. The first model uses the propagation of the first and second order moments of the intensity distributions for simulation. A proprietary approach allows a less restrictive application of the paraxial approximation. Since the calculation is very fast, the simulation can be performed in real time.

In the second model, the laser radiation is represented by a bundle of geometrical-optical beams propagated through the optical system using classical raytracing. These beams are designed to correspond to the so-called Gauss-Schell model. The beam propagation parameters, including the particularly important laser beam quality factor M², can be derived from the beam at any position in the optical system. The extent of aberrations (e.g. due to inappropriate lens selection or arrangement) can be detected by analyzing the beam quality factor of the beam as it passes through the optical system.

Therefore, a typical workflow would be the interactive design of the optical system using the propagation of the intensity moments with subsequent control for aberrations with the aid of Gauss-Schell beams.