Equation for the envelope of the field in a linear array of semiconductor lasers and an analysis of nonlinear effects

An equation is derived for the smooth envelope of a wave field propagating in a plane stratified medium possessing the resonance small-scattering effect on one period of the structure. Rectilinear propagation of the envelope of the field is detected in the xz plane, where x is normal to the layers. The conditions under which this equation can be used are indicated. For a linear array of semiconductor diodes with a stepwise dependence of the permittivity on the coordinates, the conditions for stable propagation of the radiation are analyzed and an explicit solution of the isolated-soliton type is found. (C) 1999 American Institute of Physics.