An intelligent computation system for precise assembly of large laser optics

Purpose: It is a huge technical and engineering challenge to realize the precise assembly of thousands of large optics in high power solid-state laser system. Using the 400-mm aperture-sized transport mirror as a case, this paper aims to present an intelligent numerical computation methodology for mounting performance analysis and modeling of large optics in a high-power laser system for inertial confinement fusion (ICF). Design/methodology/approach: Fundamental principles of modeling and analysis of the transport mirror surface distortion are proposed, and a genetic algorithm-based computation framework is proposed to evaluate and optimize the assembly and mounting performance of large laser optics. Findings: The stringent specifications of large ICF optics place very tight constraints upon the transport mirror’s assembly and mounts. The operational requirements on surface distortion [peak-to-valley and root mean square (RMS)] can be met as it is appropriately assembled by the close loop of assembly-inspection-optimization-fastening. In the end, the experimental study validates the reliability and effectiveness of the transport mirror mounting method. Originality/value: In the assembly design and mounting performance evaluation of large laser optics, the whole study has the advantages of accurate evaluation and intelligent optimization on nano-level optical surface distortion, which provides a fundamental methodology for precise assembly and mounting of large ICF optics.