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Total internal reflection laser tools and methods

  • US 9,242,309 B2
  • Filed: 02/15/2013
  • Issued: 01/26/2016
  • Est. Priority Date: 03/01/2012
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A total internal reflection high power laser tool, for use in hydrocarbon exploration, hydrocarbon production or the decommissioning of hydrocarbon wells, the tool comprising:

  • a. a beam tube, defining a tool axis, the beam tube comprising a laser beam path for transmitting a laser beam within the beam tube and a fluid path for transmitting a fluid;

    b. a housing in fluid communication with the beam tube, the housing comprising a single and unitary total internal reflection polyhedron structure comprised of a material transmissive to the laser beam; and

    , a passage defined in part by a total internal reflection surface of the total internal reflection polyhedron structure, the passage in fluid communication with the beam tube fluid path and removed from the laser beam path;

    c. the laser beam path extending through a first surface of the total internal reflection polyhedron structure and into the material;

    d. the laser beam path extending to and from the total internal reflection surface and forming an angle of incidence θ

    i on the total internal reflection surface that is greater than a critical angle θ

    c for the total internal reflection surface;

    whereby the laser beam traveling along the laser beam path is reflected within the total internal reflection structure by total internal reflection from the total internal reflection surface; and

    e. the laser beam path extending from the total internal reflection material and exiting the housing along a straight path;

    the exiting laser beam path forming an angle of about 90°

    or less with the beam tube axis.

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