English

The research team establishes synthetic dimensional dynamics to manipulate light

165
2024-03-20 15:57:41
See translation

In the field of physics, the synthetic dimension has become one of the forefront of active research, providing a way to explore phenomena in high-dimensional space, surpassing our traditional 3D geometric space. This concept has attracted great attention, especially in the field of topological photonics, as it has the potential to unlock rich physics that traditional dimensions cannot reach.

Researchers have proposed various theoretical frameworks to study and implement SDs, aiming to utilize phenomena such as synthetic gauge fields, quantum Hall physics, discrete solitons, and four-dimensional or higher dimensional topological phase transitions. These suggestions may lead to a new fundamental understanding of physics.

One of the main challenges in traditional three-dimensional space is to experimentally achieve complex lattice structures with specific coupling. SD provides a solution that provides a more accessible platform for creating complex resonator networks with anisotropic, long-range, or dissipative coupling. This ability has led to groundbreaking demonstrations of non Hermitian topological entanglement, parity check time symmetry, and other phenomena.

Various parameters or degrees of freedom in the system, such as frequency mode, spatial mode, and orbital angular momentum, can be used to construct SD and are expected to be applied in various fields, from optical communication to topological insulator lasers.

A key goal in this field is to build a "utopian" resonator network where any pair of modes can be coupled in a controlled manner. To achieve this goal, precise mode manipulation is required in the photon system, providing a way to enhance data transmission, energy collection efficiency, and laser array radiation.

Now, as reported in Advanced Photonics, an international research team has created customizable waveguide arrays to establish synthetic modal dimensions. This advancement allows for effective control of light in photonic systems without the need for complex additional features such as nonlinearity or non closure.

Professor Chen Zhigang from Nankai University pointed out that the ability to adjust different light modes within the system takes us one step closer to achieving a 'utopian' network, where all experimental parameters are completely controllable.

In their work, researchers modulated perturbations of propagation that matched the differences between different light modes. To this end, they used artificial neural networks to design waveguide arrays in real space. After training, artificial neural networks can create waveguide settings with the desired mode patterns. These tests help reveal how light propagates and is limited within the array.

Finally, the researchers demonstrated the use of artificial neural networks to design a special type of photonic lattice structure called Su Schrieffer Heeger lattice. This lattice has specific functions and can topologically control the light of the entire system. This allows them to change the volume mode of light propagation and demonstrate the unique characteristics of their synthesized size.

The impact of this work is enormous. By fine-tuning the waveguide distance and frequency, researchers aim to optimize the design and manufacturing of integrated photonic devices.

Professor Hrvoje Buljan from the University of Zagreb said, "In addition to photonics, this work also provides a glimpse into geometrically difficult physics. It brings broad prospects for applications ranging from mode lasers to quantum optics and data transmission.".

Chen and Buljan both pointed out that the interaction between topological photonics driven by artificial neural networks and synthetic dimension photonics has opened up new possibilities for discovery, which may lead to unprecedented material and device applications.

Source: Laser Net

Related Recommendations
  • Exail acquires laser company Leukos

    On January 6, 2025, Exail acquired Leukos, a laser company specializing in advanced laser sources for metrology, spectroscopy, and imaging applications. The financial terms of this acquisition have not been disclosed yet. Leukos will operate as a subsidiary of Exail, retaining its product portfolio and brand. This acquisition combines Leukos' advanced technologies, including pulsed micro lasers,...

    01-08
    See translation
  • Coherent Company Launches Industry's First 1200 mW Pumped Laser Module for Optical Amplification in DWDM Networks

    Coherent Corporation, the leader in erbium-doped fiber amplifier pumped laser technology for deployment in optical networks, announced today the launch of the industry's first pumped laser module in a 10 pin butterfly package with an output power of 1200 mW.The rapid development of optical communication technology is reaching the theoretical limit of fiber capacity and driving the expansion of tr...

    2023-09-22
    See translation
  • Tokyo Institute of Technology collaborates with EX Fusion to promote laser fusion energy closer to commercialization

    Recently, Tokyo Institute of Technology and EX Fusion established a collaborative research group focused on promoting liquid metal equipment to achieve commercial laser fusion reactors. The two sides held an official signing ceremony in Tokyo on October 11th, marking the official start of their cooperation.The EX Fusion Liquid Metals Collaborative Research Group was established with the support of...

    2023-10-17
    See translation
  • Technology Frontiers | What is the Next Generation Laser?

    Since the 1960s, lasers have brought revolutionary changes to the world and have now become an indispensable tool in modern applications, from cutting-edge surgical procedures and precision manufacturing to fiber optic data transmission. However, with the increasing demand for laser applications, challenges have also arisen. For example, the market for fiber lasers is constantly expanding, mainly ...

    2024-06-21
    See translation
  • Progress in research on intrinsic flexible and stretchable optoelectronic devices in the Institute of Chemistry

    Organic polymer semiconductor materials, due to their unique molecular structure and weak van der Waals interactions, are endowed with the characteristics of soluble processing and easy flexibility, and have potential applications in portable and implantable medical monitoring devices. A highly flexible, skin conformal, and excellent spatial resolution X-ray detector is expected to be integrated w...

    2024-04-09
    See translation