A binary phase zone plate array for laser beam spatial intensity distribution conversion

The phase zone plate combines the simplicity of design and fabrication of the random phase plates with the advantage of near field target placement. The flexibility of design allows the cell structure to be easily modified to produce different focal spot shapes. The components are not specific to a particular near field intensity pattern provided several elements can be encompassed by the beam and therefore may be relevant to other laser applications requiring uniform beams on a target provided high spatial frequencies are not detrimental to the laser absorption process