TEC Cooled 5.6mm portable host

Well, seeing as how we have these amazing new diodes, I figure we are going to need to change what we put our diodes in. So, I've put together a quick little module that can be easily incorporated into a portable laser host that is not overly huge. I have designed it using a 8x8mm 1.4W (00711-5L31-03CA) mini TEC to provide plenty of cooling for the new monster diode!

Here is a quick snapshot, and I'll upload some renders in a minute. This thing has a diameter of 30.1mm, which is not too bad. The TEC is sandwiched between a big heat sink and a copper diode mount using 3 screws. I plan on using a diode socket (Thorlabs.com - S7060R Laser Diode Socket for 5.6 mm Laser, 3 Pin) to allow the module to be disconnected from the host so the TEC can be upgraded or serviced. I put some pretty deep fins on the side to give the heat somewhere to go, and I tried to isolate the diode module from the heatsink as much as possible. Well, I can probably explain it better with a pic...



I am going to work tomorrow to practice on the machines, and I got permission to use some scrap that is lying around to practice with, so I figured I would practice on this! (In case anybody doesn't know, I work at a machine shop.)

So, what I am trying to say is, would anybody be interested in something like this? Keep in mind that it will probably cost upwards of $100-150 for a complete host (TEC, TEC driver, laser driver combo.) Would anyone be willing to spend that much on a diode that only cost $50? Would anybody be interested in a complete host, all wired and current set with a diode socket. All you would need to so is press the diode into the module, plug the diode in (no soldering) screw it down, and laze away!

I'm just trying to gauge interest, also looking for pointers or suggestions!

Is the heatsink going to be thermally isolated from the diode mount? The hot side of the TEC might just add heat if not. I'm sure you've thought of this but I couldn't tell from the drawing.

Personally, I'm not sure I would go the TEC route for a $50 diode. There will be those who want to get the full Watt out of it in a handheld but power for the TEC, an amp for the diode etc is gonna make it a complex, (and expensive), build. This is only my opinion though so don't let it stop development! I wonder why we never hear mention of las(e?)orbs. They seem pretty popular with the display guys. Maybe someone can clue me in on that one?

You're just loving that Solidworks, eh!

More please!

M

High power diode and TEC will drain a battery extremely fast.

I have my CAMworks now too so I can create G-code like no tomorrow (once I figure out how to use it )

The diode mount is thermally isolated from the heatsink or hot side of the TEC, you might be able to tell a little easier here...



Well, you might not be able to but is is isolated. The diode mount screws into the heatsink with 3 screws and the TEC is sandwiched in the middle so there is as little contact between the two sides as possible.

I was afraid nobody would be interested in such a thing, I guess I should redevelop something for the RGB projectors you know are coming

I think I get it now. Yes, I definitely get it now. Very hungry on power as Solonar says.

RGBs? Now there I think you may have a better market. You could draw up some good renders for those.

I just see a similar problem as other places do. I.e. reds are being left behind as far as power goes. Puny red, (in comparison), does not a good RGB make. Anyway, this section is for other colours so best take this discussion elsewhere but still... Nice drawings!

M

I put this here because I thought all the blue diode stuff was here still, I think a move is in order

My bad

$100-150 doesn't sound bad at all for a nicely designed host with TEC.

Pontiacg5 said:

Would anyone be willing to spend that much on a diode that only cost $50?

Click to expand...

With 8x & 12x 405nm we are use to the diode being the costliest component but why not have a souped up host? Then we can push these poor little diodes harder! :evil:
I've been wanting to put more into the host then just a driver.

The size of the host bothers me more then the cost. I have an extreme fondness for small hosts but with a 1W diode a tiny battery is pointless anyway I guess. :cryyy: :undecided:

Excellent Idea, PM sent.

Pontiacg5 said:

I have my CAMworks now too so I can create G-code like no tomorrow (once I figure out how to use it )

The diode mount is thermally isolated from the heatsink or hot side of the TEC, you might be able to tell a little easier here...

Well, you might not be able to but is is isolated. The diode mount screws into the heatsink with 3 screws and the TEC is sandwiched in the middle so there is as little contact between the two sides as possible.

I was afraid nobody would be interested in such a thing, I guess I should redevelop something for the RGB projectors you know are coming

Click to expand...

If you can get the TEC to dissipate heat effectively I would buy this setup.
I don't care if I would have to change batteries every 5 minutes.
If you could make it tried and true please PM me.
I have seen the tools you have at your dispose.
Thanks.

I have to say I like the idea of a high quality diode socket. Why worry about pushing your diode a bit too hard when you can pop in a new one in a sec.
Did you consider the bonus that a TEC help will keep the wavelength from shifting as you push the power up? Extra selling point! If your increasing mAs you don't want apparent brightness per mW reduced at all.

I saw this over at PL and maybe like the user said , they are ran hot on purpose as so to tune more towards the 445nm wavelength???? a desired side effect??

Original post

Recent batch of 455nm 500mW laser diodes made available on YKW ...

Pontiacg5 said:

I put this here because I thought all the blue diode stuff was here still, I think a move is in order

My bad

Click to expand...

You're not bad at all Pontiac. Totally correct section. I just thought we were digressing, (well, I was), talking about RGBs and red being underpowered, (still a good idea for another thread at some point!). Back on the blue now though.

SpyderFire said:

I saw this over at PL and maybe like the user said , they are ran hot on purpose as so to tune more towards the 445nm wavelength???? a desired side effect??

Original post

Recent batch of 455nm 500mW laser diodes made available on YKW ...

Click to expand...

Moving the wavelength is not something most of us will be worried about in a handheld pointer. BR may move to a lower wavelength when heated, (I think that's the right), and make it less visible but here the issue is longevity. Less heat = longer life and more power output.

M

tec's dont have to be huge power hogs. you arent trying to freez the diode. just keep it close to ambient. just from 2 14500, and a ddl set to 400ma my 1.5"x1.5" tec stays well below room temp. i havent done run times. but i did leave it on for 10mns.

michael