Towards ‘smart lasers’: self-optimisation of an ultrafast pulse source using a genetic algorithm

• DOI: 10.1038/srep37616
• Publication Date: 2016-11-21T10:09:54Z
• Authors: R. I. Woodward; E. J. R. Kelleher
• Keywords: Lasers; Humans; FOS: Physical sciences; 02 engineering and technology; 0210 nano-technology; 530; Article; Algorithms; 620; Physics - Optics; Optics (physics.optics)

AbstractShort-pulse fibre lasers are a complex dynamical system possessing a broad space of operating states that can be accessed through control of cavity parameters. Determination of target regimes is a multi-parameter global optimisation problem. Here, we report the implementation of a genetic algorithm to intelligently locate optimum parameters for stable single-pulse mode- locking in a Figure-8 fibre laser, and fully automate the system turn-on procedure. Stable ultrashort pulses are repeatably achieved by employing a compound fitness function that monitors both temporal and spectral output properties of the laser. Our method of encoding photonics expertise into an algorithm and applying machine-learning principles paves the way to self-optimising ‘smart’ optical technologies.