M2 Parameter of Multimode Laser Diode Beam Transformation in Real Asymmetric Optical Systems

Abstract

Generalization of M2 parameter on the case of asymmetric, multimode laser beam and array of laser beams is proposed. The geometrical method of propagation of beams of this type in real asymmetric optical systems, not restricted to paraxial approximation, is presented. The quality of lens design destined to transform of this type beam is discussed and the appropriate criterion based on transformation of M2 parameter is proposed. The examples of application of this method to the problem of diode laser beam formation are presented and discussed.</jats:p