Controlling the path of discretized light in waveguide lattices

TL;DR

This paper proposes a theoretical method to precisely control the trajectory of discretized light in waveguide lattices by modulating the coupling constant longitudinally, allowing for arbitrary path synthesis beyond traditional beam steering.

Contribution

It introduces a novel theoretical approach for flexible light path control in waveguide lattices through longitudinal coupling modulation, enabling arbitrary trajectory design.

Findings

Enables synthesis of arbitrary light paths in waveguide lattices.

Offers a flexible alternative to traditional beam steering.

Provides a theoretical framework for path control via coupling modulation.

Abstract

A general method for flexible control of the path of discretized light beams in homogeneous waveguide lattices, based on longitudinal modulation of the coupling constant, is theoretically proposed. As compared to beam steering and refraction achievable in graded-index waveguide arrays, the proposed approach enables to synthesize rather arbitrary target paths.