Laser-computer graphics system for generating portrait and 3-d sculpture reproductions inside optically transparent material

Abstract

Embodiments of methods and laser-computer graphics systems for producing images such as portraits and 3-D sculptures formed from laser light created etch points inside an optically transparent material are disclosed. One or more embodiments of the invention comprise a method and system for simultaneously producing one or more etch points in first and second objects. In accordance with a method, a main beam is split into first and second beams, each beam having an energy level greater than that necessary to cause a breakdown in the material comprising the first and second objects. The first and second beams are directed at focal points within the first and second objects, generating etch points simultaneously therein. One or more embodiments of the invention comprise methods and systems for generating images in first and second objects. In one or more embodiments, the images are comprised of etch points having multiple gray shades and/or of etch points having iridescent qualities.