Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 5, 2026

Automation of Mode Locking in a Nonlinear Polarization Rotation Fiber Laser through Output Polarization Measurements
Published on: February 28, 2016
Analytic theory of self-similar mode-locking
Brandon G Bale1, J Nathan Kutz, Frank Wise
1Department of Applied Mathematics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195-2420, USA.
Abstract:
A theoretical model is developed to quantify the experimental observations of self-similar parabolic pulses in a mode-locked laser cavity with net-zero dispersion. The averaging procedure used shows the pulse amplitude to be governed by the porous media equation that has the well-known Barenblatt similarity (parabolic) solution, suggesting that it is a viable theoretical description of temporal profiles observed in mode-locked cavities. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first analytic model proposing a mechanism responsible for generating temporal parabolic pulses.
Related Concept Videos
Self-Locking Screw
A square-threaded screw jack carrying a load is considered self-locking if the screw retains its position even after the moment applied to it is removed.
Self-Evaluation Maintenance Model
Wedges
Consider using a wedge to lift a heavy slab. Here, the wedge functions by converting the applied force into a much larger force directed almost perpendicular to the initial force. This...
Second Uniqueness Theorem
In contrast, consider that the electric field is non-unique and apply Gauss's law in divergence form in the region between the conductors and the integral form to the surface...
What is a Mode?
There can be more than one mode in a data set if multiple values have the same highest frequency. For instance, suppose that the Statistics exam scores of 20 students are: 50; 53; 59; 59; 63; 63; 72; 72; 72; 72; 72; 76; 78; 81; 83; 84; 84; 84; 90; 93. Here, the mode is 72, as it occurs most frequently, five times.
A data set with two modes is called bimodal. For example,...
Theory of Attribution II: Kelley's Covariation Theory

