Geometry and Control of Three-Wave Interactions

Abstract

The integrable structure of the three-wave equations is discussed in the setting of geometric mechanics. Lie-Poisson structures with quadratic Hamiltonian are associated with the three-wave equations through the Lie algebras su(3) and su(2, 1). A second structure having cubic Hamiltonian is shown to be compatible. The analogy between this system and the rigid-body or Euler equations is discussed. Poisson reduction is performed using the method of invariants and geometric phases associated with the reconstruction are calculated. We show that using piecewise continuous controls, the transfer of energy among three 1 waves can be controlled. The so called quasi-phase-matching control strategy, which is used in a host of nonlinear optical devices to convert laser light from one frequency to another, is described in this context. Finally, we discuss the connection between piecewise constant controls and billiards.