Achieving Long Distance Sensing Using Semiconductor Laser with Optical Feedback by Operating at Switching Status

Area of Science:

• Nonlinear Dynamics
• Semiconductor Laser Physics
• Optical Sensing

Background:

• Semiconductor lasers with optical feedback (SL OF) are used for distance measurements.
• Existing methods often require external modulation devices, limiting performance and range.
• Nonlinear dynamics in SL OF systems offer potential for novel sensing applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel distance sensing method utilizing the nonlinear dynamics of a semiconductor laser (SL) with optical feedback (OF).
• To demonstrate a square-wave intensity modulation without external electronic or optical devices.
• To investigate the system's robustness and applicability for long-distance sensing.

Main Methods:

• Operating a semiconductor laser (SL) in a switching status between stable and period-one nonlinear dynamic states.
• Utilizing the inherent SL dynamics for intrinsic square-wave intensity modulation.
• Analyzing the impact of controllable parameters on the duty cycle for robust operation.

Main Results:

• Successful generation of square-wave modulated laser intensity by exploiting inherent SL dynamics.
• Demonstration of a new approach for long-distance sensing with improved performance compared to existing SL OF systems.
• Identification of key parameters for maintaining robust operation at the switching status.

Conclusions:

• The proposed method offers a novel, robust, and potentially long-range distance sensing capability.
• Leveraging nonlinear dynamics in SL OF systems bypasses the need for external modulation.
• The study validates the sensing approach through both simulation and experimental verification.