| 摘要 |
<p>Semiconductor layers (1) define a PIN superstructure, the intrinsic part (I) of which comprises a series of layers (SL) forming quantum wells; it is capable, within a spectral range, of optical absorption dependent on the electric field. Working light, lying within the said spectral range, is admitted into the series of quantum-well layers, this light photocreating, in the said series of layers, electron-hole pairs by photon absorption. The number, types and geometries of the layers of the said series of layers (SL) are chosen so that the said series of layers produces a superlattice capable, on the one hand, of the Wannier-Stark effect and, on the other hand, of generating, at rest, a self-established electric field because of the potential difference naturally set up at its terminals by the PIN superstructure. The combined effect, on the photocreated electron-hole pairs, of the said Wannier-Stark effect and of the said electric field self-established at rest generates a self-amplifying effect of the absorption variations of the said series of layers (SL). This provides an "all optical" bistable effect without requiring recourse to an external electrical circuit. <IMAGE></p> |
