Integrated optical wave analyzer using the discrete fractional Fourier transform

TL;DR

This paper presents an integrated optical wave analyzer that employs the discrete fractional Fourier transform and quantum harmonic oscillator propagator to efficiently reconstruct the Wigner distribution function of optical signals within integrated optics.

Contribution

It introduces a novel method combining discrete fractional Fourier transform and quantum harmonic oscillator propagator for optical signal characterization.

Findings

Effective reconstruction of Wigner distribution function demonstrated.

Integration of mathematical tools improves phase-space analysis.

Advantages over traditional methods in signal propagation understanding.

Abstract

Within the expansive domain of optical sciences, achieving the precise characterization of light beams stands as a fundamental pursuit, pivotal for various applications, including telecommunications and imaging technologies. This study introduces an innovative methodology aimed at reconstructing the Wigner distribution function of optical signals; a crucial tool in comprehending the time-frequency behavior exhibited by these signals. The proposed approach integrates two robust mathematical tools: the discrete realization of fractional Fourier transform, and the propagator of the quantum harmonic oscillator in waveguide arrays. This integration offers a direct and efficient method for characterizing optical signals by reconstructing their Wigner distribution function in the scope of integrated optics. We provide evidence of how having knowledge of the signal propagation amid the phase-space reconstruction, has desirable advantages in respect to only knowing the signal state.