Machine-aided near-transform-limited pulse compression in fully fiber-interconnected systems for efficient spectral broadening

The precise control over optical pulse parameters in fiber systems is crucial in many applications. Our research focuses on optimizing optical femtosecond pulses for nonlinear optics, addressing challenges in fiber-based systems with dispersion and nonlinearity. Utilizing spectral phase control and optimization algorithms like particle swarm and simulated annealing, we fine-tune a complex phase mask for desired pulse shapes. Our method involves custom phase-profile optimization via spectral-domain phase modulation to compensate for nonlinear effects in pulse delivery. Using a chirped femtosecond source and a fiber amplifier, our implemented optimization scheme produces near-transform-limited pulses after propagation in polarization-maintaining fiber. This approach accommodates diverse pulse durations, showcasing the effectiveness of off-the-shelf programmable components with optimization algorithms in nonlinear optics and optical signal processing applications.