Nonlinear dynamics in integrated coupled DFB lasers with ultra-short delay.

Area of Science:

• Nonlinear dynamics
• Laser physics
• Integrated photonics

Background:

• Coupled laser systems are fundamental in photonics.
• Understanding nonlinear dynamics is crucial for laser applications.
• Ultra-short coupling delays introduce unique behaviors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the rich nonlinear dynamics in integrated coupled lasers with ultra-short coupling delay.
• To identify the key parameters governing these dynamics.
• To numerically validate experimental observations.

Main Methods:

• Experimental observation of laser dynamics.
• Numerical simulation using coupled delay differential equations.
• Analysis of frequency detuning and coupling phase effects.

Main Results:

• Observed phenomena include mutually stable locking, period-1 oscillation, frequency locking, quasi-periodicity, and chaos.
• Numerical simulations successfully reproduced the experimental dynamic behaviors.
• Round-trip frequency was found to be irrelevant to the observed dynamics.

Conclusions:

• The relationship between frequency detuning and relaxation oscillation frequency is critical for dynamics in mutually coupled lasers with very short delays.
• Nonlinear dynamics are highly sensitive to parameter variations in such systems.
• This study provides insights into controlling complex behaviors in integrated laser systems.