Revealing the buildup of dynamic mode-switchable frequency-shifted feedback laser based on photon–phonon interaction

Abstract

Photon-phonon interaction (PPI) is an intriguing physical phenomenon in which the dynamic photon-phonon energy transfer allows the manipulation of acousto-optic properties in the media. Recently, there has been significant interest of PPI as it accompanies the conservations of energy and momentum processes. Mode-locking is a process in which temporal and spatial resonant modes establish stable synchronization through non-linear interactions. Here, we propose and reveal the buildup of a dynamic mode-switchable frequency-shifted feedback laser in which frequency shift and mode conversion are achieved based on PPI. Moreover, dynamic switching between LP11a/b mode and stable donut mode output is achieved and precisely controlled by PPI. Finally, by using the time-stretch dispersive Fourier transform (TS-DFT) detective system, we observe the transient dynamics established in frequency-shifted feedback (FSF) fiber laser, such as the direct evolution from continuous wave (CW) state to mode-locked state, CW state to multipulse state and subsequently to stable mode-locked state. All these findings would unveil the buildup of mode-locking mechanisms of dynamic mode-switchable FSF fiber lasers based on PPI with more degrees of freedom and unlock new possibilities in ultrafast laser-based technology, optical communication and light control.