We analyze frequency conversion and its control among three light waves using a geometric approach that enables the dynamics of the waves to be visualized on a closed surface in three dimensions. It extends the analysis based on the undepleted-pump linearization and provides a simple way to understand the fully nonlinear dynamics. The Poincaré sphere has been used in the same way to visualize polarization dynamics. A geometric understanding of control strategies that enhance energy transfer among interacting waves is introduced, and the quasi-phase-matching strategy that uses microstructured quadratic materials is illustrated in this setting for both type I and II second-harmonic generation and for parametric three-wave interactions
