An apparatus and method for receiving a Gaussian profile optical input
signal and splitting the input signal into two or more homogenized,
top-hat profile output beams. In one embodiment first and second
hexagonally shaped homogenizer tubes are coupled perpendicularly to one
another. A beam splitting element is disposed within the second tube. A
Gaussian profile input optical signal is directed into an input end of
the first tube and reflects off highly reflective interior surfaces of
the first tube as it propagates therethrough and impinges the beam
splitting element. As it is split into two or more subcomponents by the
beam splitting element, it continues reflecting off of highly reflective
interior surfaces of the second tube until each of the output beams
reaches a respective output end of the second tube. The apparatus
accomplishes redirecting, splitting and transforming a Gaussian profile
input optical signal into a desired plurality of homogenized, top-hat
profile output signals in a compact configuration that is highly
optically efficient.