Algorithm-Designed Photonic Circuits Beyond Human Intuition
11 hours ago
- Harvard SEAS and Max Planck Institute researchers used an inverse-design algorithm to create silicon nitride photonic components 500 times smaller than conventional designs.
- The inverse-design approach specifies desired light behavior, and the algorithm finds optimal nanostructures, resulting in compact, fabrication-compatible designs.
- Three components were developed: wavelength splitters, spatial mode sorters, and mirrors, with mirrors reflecting up to 98.5% of light for on-chip cavities.
- The research could enhance performance in quantum photonic circuits, nonlinear optics, and applications like telecommunications and precision measurement.