9309430 Sheng This research is for the development of a laser based machine tool for the finishing of axisymmetric and prismatic parts, especially parts made from high strength metal alloys, ceramics, and composites. Specific techniques such as tangential laser beam impingement, raster scanning of the laser beam, use of high wavelength radiation, use of off axis water jet, workpiece preheating, and control of laser beam temporal and spatial modes are researched to improve surface finish and reduce surface thermal damage. A prototype machine tool will be constructed, several classes of engineering materials evaluated for their machinability, and theoretical analysis of beam/material interaction performed. The resulting machine tool is expected to be flexible in terms of the workpiece geometries that could be finished, and would combine material removal and heat treatment. The applications would be especially well suited to some new lasers emerging commercially, such as excimer, high radiance tunable dye, and copper vapor lasers. ***
