Engineering the Linear and Nonlinear Optical Properties of Periodic Waveguide Arrays

本提案的目的是探索，实验和理论，新概念相关的传播光波的周期阵列的光波导。智力优势：我们都知道，单个原子的行为与组成固体的周期性原子阵列的集体行为之间存在着历史上的巨大差异。有趣的是，今天我们有一个类似的机会来研究和设计单个波导和一组波导的非凡集体行为之间的光学行为的相应差异。例如，我们对波导阵列周期性的小偏差的研究将使我们能够更好地评估和利用线性和非线性周期结构中缺陷的作用。此外，我们一直在寻找控制和最小化衍射效应的方法，特别是损耗，我们的研究将进一步加深我们对周期波导阵列中衍射的理解，也许更重要的是，对衍射的管理。最后，我们的建议还包括探索在波导阵列结构中包含量子点，因此提供了一种令人兴奋的方法来增强其非线性行为并开辟新的应用。更广泛的影响：所有提出的研究课题都挑战了基本的基本问题，其中一些对光学以外的其他领域有直接的影响。此外，我们还提出了一项推广工作，将基于探究的光学实践课程引入K-12科学教育，吸引代表性不足的学生进入光学科学和工程领域。最后，加上我们的学生设计波导，制造它们，并分析它们。这是一次教育经历，涵盖了从基础光学科学到操作设备的范围-这是学习光学工程中许多新旧概念的美好方式。

The objective of this proposal is to explore, both experimentally and theoretically, new concepts related to the propagation of optical waves in periodic arrays of optical waveguides. Intellectual Merit: We are all aware of the historically extraordinary difference in behavior between a single atom and the collective behavior of a periodic array of atoms that are organized to form a solid. Interestingly, today we have a similar opportunity to study and perhaps to engineer the corresponding difference in optical behavior between a single waveguide and the extraordinary collective behavior of an array of waveguides. For example, our study of small deviations from periodicity of a waveguide array will allow us to better assess and take advantage of the role of defects in both linear and nonlinear periodic structures. In addition, we are always looking for way to control and to minimize diffraction effects, especially losses, and our investigation will further our understanding and perhaps more importantly, the management of diffraction in periodic waveguide arrays. Finally, our proposal also includes exploring the inclusion of quantum dots in waveguide array structures and therefore offers an exciting way to enhance their nonlinear behavior and open new applications. Broader Impact: All of the proposed research topics challenge basic fundamental questions with some having direct implications in other fields beyond optics. Moreover, we also propose an outreach effort that brings hands-on inquiry based lessons in optics to K-12 science education and attracts under-represented students into optical sciences and engineering. Finally, add to this picture our students designing waveguides, fabricating them, and analyzing them. This is an educational experience that spans the range from basic optical science to operating devices - a beautiful way to learn many old and new concepts in optical engineering.