Configuration space methods and quantum optical solitons

Summary form only given. The term configuration space applies to any approach which treats a quantum system in terms of particle coordinates, as opposed to a second-quantized or field operator approach. Any physical system can be described in terms these two exactly equivalent formulations. Configuration space methods are a natural approach to certain propagation problems, providing simplified calculations and new physical insight. One motivation is the potential to design devices that manipulate wave functions for the collective coordinates of optical pulses. Some examples are discussed.