Method of evaluating non-linear optical crystal and device therefor, and wavelength conversion method and device therefor

Abstract

A method of evaluating a non-linear optical crystal used for non-linear wavelength conversion of laser beam which enables the non-linear optical crystal to be evaluated before the crystal is actually used as a wavelength conversion element in order for the crystal to be constantly used for an extended time with a high conversion efficiency retained and without lowering in output when non-linear optical crystals for various non-linear wavelength conversions such as a CLBO crystal are used to convert laser beams, wherein the non-linear optical crystal is moved to changed a laser beam incident position to detect the output of a laser beam emitted from the non-linear optical crystal for each changing position.

1 . A method of evaluating a non-linear optical crystal used for non-linear wavelength conversion of laser beam, wherein
 the non-linear optical crystal is moved to change a laser beam incident position, and   the output of laser beam emitted from said non-linear optical crystal is detected for each changing position.   
   
   
       2 . A non-linear optical crystal evaluation device used for non-linear wavelength conversion of laser beam, said device comprising:
 moving means for moving a non-linear optical crystal to change a laser beam incident position; and   detection means for detecting the output of laser beam emitted from said non-linear optical crystal for each laser beam incident position that changes with the movement of said non-linear optical crystal moved by said moving means.   
   
   
       3 . A non-linear optical crystal evaluation device used for non-linear wavelength conversion of laser beam, said device comprising:
 moving means for moving a non-linear optical crystal to change a laser beam incident position;   detection means for detecting the output of laser beam emitted from said non-linear optical crystal for each laser beam incident position that changes with the movement of said non-linear optical crystal moved by said moving means; and   storage means for storing the detection result of said detection means.   
   
   
       4 . The non-linear optical crystal evaluation device according to  claim 3 , wherein
 said storage means is a freely detachable storage medium.