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Optical spatial solitons at the interface between two dissimilar periodic media: theory and experiment
S Suntsov1, K G Makris, D N Christodoulides
1College of Optics and Photonics, CREOL & FPCE, University of Central Florida, 4000 Central Florida Blvd., Orlando, Florida 32816, USA.
Optics Express
|July 9, 2008
Summary
Researchers observed discrete spatial solitons at the interface of two waveguide arrays for the first time. These interface solitons exhibit distinct power thresholds and behaviors, including potential channel switching.
Area of Science:
- Nonlinear Optics
- Waveguide Arrays
- Soliton Dynamics
Background:
- Discrete spatial solitons are localized nonlinear waves in periodic structures.
- Interface phenomena in waveguide arrays are crucial for optical device design.
Purpose of the Study:
- To experimentally observe and theoretically investigate discrete spatial solitons at the interface of dissimilar waveguide arrays.
- To characterize the behavior and power thresholds of these novel interface solitons.
Main Methods:
- Experimental observation of discrete spatial solitons.
- Theoretical modeling to identify and analyze interface soliton properties.
- Investigation of soliton evolution with varying input power and array separation.
Main Results:
- First observation of discrete spatial solitons traveling along the interface between two dissimilar one-dimensional waveguide arrays.
- Two types of interface solitons were identified, with different power thresholds dependent on lattice characteristics.
- Solitons experienced asymmetric potentials (attractive/repulsive) and showed evidence of channel switching with increasing power.
Conclusions:
- The study demonstrates the existence and unique properties of discrete spatial solitons at waveguide array interfaces.
- These findings open new possibilities for manipulating light in complex waveguide structures.
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