What is ASLD?
ASLD is multiphysics laser simulation software for the design, simulation, and optimization of solid-state laser resonators and amplifiers.
Solid-state laser design involves thermal, structural, optical, and dynamic effects that must be evaluated together to accurately predict performance. ASLD brings these simulation tasks into one software environment for solid-state laser resonators and amplifiers.
ASLD is multiphysics laser simulation software for the design, simulation, and optimization of solid-state laser resonators and amplifiers.
In solid-state laser development, the simulation workflow often spans multiple connected tasks rather than a single calculation. ASLD is designed for this workflow, allowing users to move from laser crystal analysis and pump-light configuration to beam quality, amplifier behavior, and Q-switch simulation within one software environment.
ASLD covers resonator and amplifier design, output power and beam quality analysis, thermal lensing, pump-light configuration, Q-switch simulation, and parameter optimization studies.
Supported configurations include multi-level solid-state laser resonators and amplifiers, active and passive Q-switching, multipass amplification, ultra-short and chirped pulse amplification, and polarization effects.
Supported laser materials include Nd:YAG, Yb:YAG, Er:YAG, Er:glass, and Tm,Ho:YAG.
Each simulation module in ASLD uses a method matched to the physical problem. A 3-dimensional Finite-Element Method (FEM) handles thermal and structural analysis of laser crystals. Dynamic Multi-Mode Analysis (DMA) calculates output power and beam quality. Arbitrary rate-equation systems simulate resonator dynamics for multi-level and co-doped materials. Beam Propagation Method (BPM) is used for amplifier beam-shape simulation, including Kerr lensing and gain guiding effects. Ray tracing defines pump-light distributions in end-pumped and side-pumped geometries, and parameter analysis with parallel computation supports design sweeps and optimization across multiple variables.
The core algorithms in ASLD were developed through research in collaboration with the University of Erlangen and published in journals and conference proceedings. Published topics include short laser pulse amplification, dynamic mode analysis with arbitrary rate equations, regenerative amplifier simulation, semiconductor saturable absorber mirrors, passive Q-switched lasers, frequency-dependent pump-light absorption, and coupled thermo-optical finite-element analysis.
For a full list of publications, see the Publications page.
Visit the Description page for detailed simulation modules, the FAQ page for concise technical answers, and the Contact page to request a demo or more information.