Acousto-optic superlattice modulator using a fiber Bragg grating

A modulator is reported in which an extensional acoustic wave is launched along a fiber Bragg grating. The acousto-optic superlattice effect causes an enhancement in reflectivity within a narrow spectral region on both sides of the Bragg wavelength. For a fixed acoustic propagation direction, the Doppler shift can be either positive or negative, depending on whether the wavelength of the incident light lies above or below the Bragg condition. The device can function as a Bragg cell and a tunable filter.