On the exploration of structured light transmission through a multimode fiber in a reference-less system

Abstract

Recent advancements in optical wavefront shaping have brought multimode fibers (MMFs) into the spotlight as potential contenders for long-haul communication, positioning them as promising substitutes to single-mode fibers. MMFs offer greater data rates, countering the impending congestion of fiber-based networks. Additionally, their suitability for single fiber endoscope procedures presents them as compelling alternatives for minimally invasive endoscopy, providing information comparable to, if not surpassing, current cutting-edge technology. However, the complex modal behavior of light in MMFs hinders the implementation of these promising applications. Hence, precise modal excitation and control are crucial for improving the transmission of structured light in MMFs. This study introduces a groundbreaking approach that achieves the retrieval of the transmission matrix in a single step, thereby facilitating coherent light propagation through highly dispersive MMFs. By combining iterative phase retrieval algorithms with the measurement of phase shifts between experimentally established focal points, potential arbitrary interference control is enabled, leading to effective phase correction. The efficacy of our method is validated through the successful transmission of diverse structured light beams, including Laguerre–Gauss and Hermite–Gaussian types, as well as handwritten characters via MMF. The examination of structured light is simplified using an off-axis holographic technique that accurately captures both intensity and phase information. These results hold significant potential, paving the way for major advancements in long-distance communication and minimally invasive medical procedures, thereby transforming the telecommunications and healthcare sectors.