POLARIZATION MODEL FOR A HELICALLY WOUND OPTICAL-FIBER

A polarization model for a helically wound optical fiber is presented. The model is based on a Mueller-matrix formalism that includes the ef fects of the winding configuration of the optical fiber on the polariz ation properties. A comparison between experimental polarimetric data for short lengths of polarization-maintaining optical fiber wound in a helical configuration upon the surface of a shell and the polarizatio n model is presented. The effects of static radial displacements of a cylindrical shell are considered. Finally, the model is used to predic t the effects of a range of displacements on the polarization properti es of the transmitted light, hence demonstrating its use as a design t ool for polarimetric sensors utilizing nontrivial geometric configurat ions. (C) 1997 Optical Society of America.