A Multi-Channel Frequency Router Based on an Optimization Algorithm and Dispersion Engineering

Abstract

Integrated frequency routers, which can guide light with different frequencies to different output ports, are an important kind of nanophotonic device. However, frequency routers with both a compact size and multiple channels are difficult to realize, which limits the application of these frequency routers in nanophotonics. Here, a kind of bandgap optimization algorithm, which consists of the finite element method and topology optimization, is proposed to design a multi-channel frequency router. Channels supporting photonic edge states with different frequencies are built through the synthetic dimension of translational deformation. Due to the help of the developed optimization algorithms, the number of channels and output ports can be increased up to nine while maintaining ultracompact device size. The device operates within a working band of 0.585–0.665 c/a, corresponding to 1.504–1.709 μm when the lattice constant is set as 1 μm, covering the telecom wavelength of 1.55 μm. The average crosstalk is about −11.49 dB. The average extinction ratio is around 16.18 dB. Because the bus of the device can be regarded as a part of a topological rainbow, the results show that the structure is robust to fabrication errors. This method is general, which can be used for different materials and different frequency ranges. The all-dielectric planar configuration of our router is compact, robust, and easy to integrate, providing a new method for on-chip multi-channel broadband information processing.

Multifunctional topological photonic crystal device for multichannel frequency routing and highly sensitive refractive index sensing

“…In the domain of optical communication systems, the ability to transmit multiple channels simultaneously is crucial for achieving high bandwidth and data transfer rates [9]. Multichannel frequency routing, the process of guiding multiple frequencies through distinct paths, has traditionally been challenging to implement using conventional optical components [10]. However, PCs with TESs offer a promising solution to this challenge.…”

“…However, PCs with TESs offer a promising solution to this challenge. These edge states, which exist at the boundaries of the PC structure, can propagate multiple frequencies without interference, enabling the realization of multichannel optical devices [9][10][11][12]. Refractive index (RI) sensing is a critical technique in various fields, including biosensing, chemical detection, and environmental monitoring [13][14][15].…”

Dual-Channel Underwater Acoustic Topological Rainbow Trapping Based on Synthetic Dimension

“…Rainbow trapping, which separates and traps waves of different frequencies at different spatial positions, is advantageous for applications that require temporary energy storage [20,21], augmented energy-matter interaction [22,23], and efficient frequency routing in classical systems [24][25][26]. Inspired by rainbow trapping, which originated from studies in electromagnetic waves [20,[27][28][29][30], research has also been conducted on trapping acoustic waves.…”

Editorial of the Special Issue ‘Nano-Optics and Nano-Optoelectronics: Challenges and Future Trends’

“…Due to their exceptional properties, these nanostructures/nanomaterials offer a diverse range of novel applications in photodetectors [ 1 , 9 , 11 ], solar cells [ 2 , 9 , 10 ], modulators [ 1 , 3 , 8 ], light emitters [ 1 , 7 ], optoelectronic integration [ 5 , 6 ], super-resolved imaging [ 4 , 5 ], nanofabrication [ 4 ], etc. This Special Issue also encompasses the latest advancements in practical nano-optical and nano-optoelectronic technologies, such as femtosecond laser nano-processing [ 12 ], atomic layer coating [ 13 ], and new designs for photonic integration engineering [ 14 ]. It concludes with reviews that aim to offer comprehensive overviews of nano-related infrared absorption technology [ 15 ] and neuromorphic photonics devices [ 16 ], and to predict the futural trends in these nano-optic and nano-optoelectronic topics.…”

“…It is thus suggested as an effective technique for nanomaterial fabrication. Yuan et al [ 14 ] present a novel bandgap optimization algorithm that integrates the finite element method and topology optimization for the purpose of designing a multi-channel frequency router. Their approach exhibits generality, enabling its application across various materials and frequency ranges, and thus could serve as a novel technique for on-chip multi-channel broadband information processing.…”