Browsing by Author "Mori, Andrew"

Now showing 1 - 1 of 1
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Time domain pulse shaping using a genetic algorithm
    (Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2010-03) Mori, Andrew; Rohwer, Erich G.; Botha, Lourens R.; University of Stellenbosch. Faculty of Science. Dept. of Physics.
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Through the use of complex Laser Pulse Shaping, numerous fundamental laser induced processes may be controlled as well as studied. This work serves as an introduction into Laser Pulse Shaping, with the focus on a simple Pulse Shaping experiment, as well as to determine whether future, more complex processes may be similarly controlled. A description of Laser Pulse Shaping theory is presented here, along with a full explanation of a simple experiment to maximize second harmonic generation (SHG) through Pulse Shaping. This experiment is simple on a theoretical level yet complicated in both implementation as well as operation. The experimental setup and software integration required hardware compatibility in multiple programming languages. This work was successful in the sense that a fully automated dispersion compensation system, accomplished through the use of a genetic algorithm in a feedback controlled loop, was constructed and tested. The success of this experiment and the understanding gained in this work has laid the foundation for further complex Pulse Shaping systems to be achieved in future.