We present an overview and generalized analysis through a number of general
cases of coupled-wave equations for nonlinear optical guided-wave coupled
systems. They are applicable for both symmetric and asymmetric guided-wave
coupling structures. An overview of the nonlinear symmetric guided-wave opt
ical coupling systems is given that introduces a generalization of the anal
ysis for nonlinear asymmetric coupling. General cases including those for n
onlinear guided modes and power nonorthogonality are considered, and full,
power-conserved and nonorthogonal coupled-mode equations (in terms of param
eters directly related to the lightwave power contained in the waveguides)
are proposed and analytically described. A numerical case study of the nonl
inear asymmetric coupling system, which consists of a slab-planar optical w
aveguide and an optical fiber is described. (C) 2001 Optical Society of Ame
rica.