33 research outputs found
Manipulation and removal of defects in spontaneous optical patterns
Defects play an important role in a number of fields dealing with ordered
structures. They are often described in terms of their topology, mutual
interaction and their statistical characteristics. We demonstrate theoretically
and experimentally the possibility of an active manipulation and removal of
defects. We focus on the spontaneous formation of two-dimensional spatial
structures in a nonlinear optical system, a liquid crystal light valve under
single optical feedback. With increasing distance from threshold, the
spontaneously formed hexagonal pattern becomes disordered and contains several
defects. A scheme based on Fourier filtering allows us to remove defects and to
restore spatial order. Starting without control, the controlled area is
progressively expanded, such that defects are swept out of the active area.Comment: 4 pages, 4 figure
Spatial correlations in hexagons generated via a Kerr nonlinearity
We consider the hexagonal pattern forming in the cross-section of an optical
beam produced by a Kerr cavity, and we study the quantum correlations
characterizing this structure. By using arguments related to the symmetry
broken by the pattern formation, we identify a complete scenario of six-mode
entanglement. Five independent phase quadratures combinations, connecting the
hexagonal modes, are shown to exhibit sub-shot-noise fluctuations. By means of
a non-linear quantum calculation technique, quantum correlations among the mode
photon numbers are demonstrated and calculated.Comment: ReVTeX file, 20 pages, 7 eps figure
Geotechnical design and construction aspects of a pipeline-escarpment crossing
This paper describes geotechnical design and construction aspects of a large diameter pipeline which traverses a steep and tall escarpment in deep water on its route to shore from a hydrocarbon field offshore of Australia. Key geotechnical challenges of this crossing, which are discussed in this paper include (i) pipeline route selection, (ii) calcareous seabed conditions, (iii) deep-water earthworks necessary to profile the escarpment, (iv) overall stability assessment, and (v) evaluation of necessary pipe-soil interaction parameters in relation to pipeline performance when subject to imposed metocean and product-slugging loads. These data were also used to determine appropriate construction methods, earthworks profiling and to assess pipeline fatigue life at the crossing. Insights from escarpment profiling and pipeline installation are also presented.</p