Modal expansion analysis of strained photonic lattices based on vertical cavity surface emitting laser arrays

The optical modes of lasing photonic lattices incorporating alternating-shear strain were analyzed using a background-resonator mode expansion model. The model correctly explains the observed locking of the photon mode near fields to square or hexagonal-like lattice patterns for subcritical strain values, as well as the abrupt switching between the two mode patterns. Control of the optical mode switching point by adjusting the lattice reflectivity is proposed and analyzed.