Nonlinear Guided Wave Applications
- 1 August 1985
- journal article
- Published by SPIE-Intl Soc Optical Eng in Optical Engineering
- Vol. 24 (4) , 244593-244593-
- https://doi.org/10.1117/12.7973535
Abstract
Potential device applications of third-order nonlinear phenomena in guided wave structures are discussed. One of the waveguiding media is assumed to exhibit an intensity-dependent refractive index that results in both an intensity-dependent propagation wavevector and field distribution for the guided waves. These two characteristics lead to many interesting all-optical devices whose operating principles and power levels are outlined here. For example, the intensity-dependent field patterns can be used for thresholding and switching operations in a waveguide context. The intensity-dependent wavevector, used in conjuction with a distributed input or output coupler, can lead to devices such as optical limiters and light-controlled spatial scanners. When gratings are used as distributed feedback elements within a nonlinear waveguide, a whole class of novel devices such as bistable switches and optically tunable optical filters should be feasible.Keywords
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