A Short Guide to Key PIC Industry Design Guidelines for Optimizing Performance and Scalability


A Guide to Key PIC Industry Design Guidelines for Optimizing Performance and Scalability

The Global Photonics Engineering Contest has captured the imagination of engineers worldwide, inviting innovative minds to showcase their ideas in the ever-evolving field of Integrated photonics. As part of our spotlight on the contest’s jury members, we had the privilege of speaking with Jörn Epping, Epiphany's co-founder and an integrated photonics expert.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/global-photonics-engineering-contest?utm_source=photon+delta&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=photonics"><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1734529434210-1734529434210.png" class="fr-fic fr-dii"></a><a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/global-photonics-engineering-contest?utm_source=photon+delta&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=photonics" class="button-main-action">Learn more about the challenge here.</a>Jörn Epping brings a wealth of experience to the jury, with an impressive career spanning academic research, engineering design, and entrepreneurial leadership. With a background in physics from the University of Münster and a PhD from the University of Twente, his career has been deeply rooted in photonics innovation. After roles at LioniX and a stint as Managing director at QuiX Quantum GmbH, Epping co-founded Epiphany, a design house focused on integrated photonics and commercialization.Epping shared valuable insights on what makes a strong submission and how engineers can maximize their chances of success in this prestigious challenge.<blockquote>“What excites me most about this contest is seeing ideas come to life,” he explained. “I love witnessing how new concepts translate into designs and eventually into chips.”</blockquote><h3 dir="ltr">What Makes a Submission Stand Out?</h3>When evaluating contest submissions, Epping emphasizes two primary qualities: creativity and feasibility.<ul><li dir="ltr">Creativity: “Is it unique? Does it push the boundaries of what we expect?” Epping believes that engineering contests are an opportunity to think outside the box, unbound by the constraints of existing markets.</li><li dir="ltr">Feasibility: “Is the idea practical and producible with today’s technology? Can it be manufactured?” Submissions should demonstrate an understanding of current technological capabilities and scalability, whether the project involves mass production or niche applications.</li></ul>Epping also highlighted the importance of aligning the proposed solution with a clear use case. “There are two key paths: either creating a cost-effective product for mass production or designing a specialized, high-value solution that only chips can achieve, such as for satellites or harsh environments.”<h3 dir="ltr">Tips for Crafting a Strong Submission</h3>To make your entry shine, Epping recommends following a structured design journey:<ol><li dir="ltr">Sketch Your Idea: Begin with a clear schematic outlining the concept and its intended functionality.</li><li dir="ltr">Leverage Available Technologies: Identify components or technologies that can bring your concept to life. Consider whether using existing building blocks is feasible or if additional development is required.</li><li dir="ltr">Provide Evidence: Where possible, include simulations, calculations, or performance estimates to substantiate your idea.</li><li dir="ltr">Plan for Manufacturing: Consider the entire development chain, including packaging and testing. “If you don’t plan for these during the design phase, it may be too late to address them later,” Epping cautioned.</li></ol><h3 dir="ltr"><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1734347233028-AIM+Photonics+-+Photonic+Integrated+Circuits+1+%28PIC1%29+1-48+screenshot.png" width="602" height="339" class="fr-fic fr-dii"></h3>Image credit: AimPhotonics<h3 dir="ltr">Encouraging Future Innovators</h3>The Global Photonics Engineering Contest is not just about competition; it’s about fostering creativity and innovation in a field poised to transform industries. Epping encourages participants to explore new application areas for integrated photonics rather than competing in highly saturated markets like telecommunications.For aspiring engineers or those looking to pivot into photonics, Epping’s advice is simple: “Stay curious. Focus on developing a solid understanding of the fundamentals, and don’t be afraid to explore uncharted territories.”<h3 dir="ltr">Why This Contest Stands Out</h3><blockquote>“What makes this contest special is the opportunity to see truly out-of-the-box ideas,” Epping said. “It’s about sparking creativity and bridging the gap between concept and commercialization.”</blockquote>With insights like these, participants are well-equipped to craft compelling submissions that showcase not only their technical prowess but also their ability to innovate and solve real-world problems. As Epping and his fellow jury members review the entries, they’ll be looking for projects that embody the transformative potential of photonics.<h3 dir="ltr">Final tips for entrants</h3><ol data-stringify-type="ordered-list" data-list-tree="true" data-indent="0" data-border="0"><li data-stringify-indent="0" data-stringify-border="0">Apply before December 31 to receive personalized feedback from the PhotonDelta team.</li><li data-stringify-indent="0" data-stringify-border="0">Ensure your entry is legible and conveys your ideas as succinctly and clearly as possible.</li><li data-stringify-indent="0" data-stringify-border="0">Don’t be afraid to reach out. We are here to answer any of your content questions. Just email us at:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" data-stringify-link="mailto:challenges@wevolver.com" data-sk="tooltip_parent" href="mailto:challenges@wevolver.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" id="isPasted">challenges@wevolver.com</a></li></ol>Good luck to all participants, and may your ideas shine as brightly as the photonic innovations they inspire!<h1 dir="ltr">Global Photonics Engineering Contest</h1><a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/global-photonics-engineering-contest?utm_source=photon+delta&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=photonics"><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1734529513573-1734529513573.png" class="fr-fic fr-dii"></a>The Global Photonics Engineering Contest invites engineers, innovators, and startups to push the boundaries of Photonic Integrated Circuits (PIC) and create applications that address complex engineering challenges and push the boundaries of the industry. Whether you’re in semiconductors, data &amp; telecom, medtech, or agritech, we want to see your breakthrough idea that can harness the power of PICs to change the world.<ul><li dir="ltr">Prize:&nbsp;€50,000 worth of services from the PhotonDelta ecosystem to to make your idea market-ready + a chance to receive up to €2 million in pre-seed funding.</li><li dir="ltr">Audience: Open to all engineers, researchers, OEMs, hardware manufacturers, startups/scale-ups, research teams, and students working on innovative PIC applications.</li><li dir="ltr">Early Bird Opportunity: All submissions received by 31st December 2024, will receive&nbsp;personalized feedback from PhotonDelta engineers.</li><li dir="ltr">End date: March 3rd 2025</li></ul><a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/global-photonics-engineering-contest?utm_source=photon+delta&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=photonics" class="button-main-action">Submit now!</a>

As part of our spotlight on the contest’s jury members, we had the privilege of speaking with Jörn Epping, Epiphany's co-founder and an integrated photonics expert. 

Tips and Insights from the Global Photonics Engineering Contest Jury

Photonic integrated circuits (PICs) are emerging as transformative tools in industries ranging from telecommunications to healthcare. With applications spanning telecom, healthcare, computing, and beyond, PICs hold the potential to revolutionize industries and solve some of society’s most pressing challenges.&nbsp;To inspire engineers and innovators, the&nbsp;Global Photonics Engineering Contest, in collaboration with Photon Delta, is offering a platform to showcase groundbreaking ideas.Wevolver spoke with Twan Korthorst, CEO of <a href="https://neworigin.eu/en/">New Origin</a> and a passionate advocate for photonic technologies, to provide deeper insight into the impact of PICs, the journey into the industry, and advice for succeeding in the challenge.<h2 dir="ltr">Unlocking new possibilities and innovative applications with PICs</h2>Integrated photonic chips have the potential to significantly impact multiple industries, building on their foundational role in telecommunications. As Twan Korthorst explains, the integrated photonics journey began with long-haul telecom applications, where optical fibers replaced copper links and satellite communication, enabling high-bandwidth, low-energy data transport. The industry has since matured, transitioning from traditional telecom to datacom, where optical fibers now connect data centers and even chips, such as CPUs and GPUs, addressing challenges like bandwidth, latency, and energy consumption.&nbsp;Beyond telecommunications, the advancements in photonic ICs have unlocked creativity in new applications. From shrinking bulky LiDAR systems for autonomous vehicles and industrial robots to developing sensitive biosensors and miniaturized light engines for AR/VR devices, the possibilities are vast.&nbsp;Investments in datacom have driven the maturity of photonic technology, with improved design tools and broader access to manufacturing facilities. As Korthorst highlights, this momentum is paving the way for further innovation, lower costs, and a significant expansion of photonic IC applications in the coming decade.<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rCuJEx6kmyQ?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0&amp;enablejsapi=1&amp;origin=https://www.wevolver.com" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true">&nbsp;</iframe><h2 dir="ltr">Challenges in Scaling Photonic Innovation</h2>Despite their promise, PICs face hurdles that must be addressed to accelerate adoption. According to Korthorst, two primary challenges stand out:<ol><li dir="ltr">Cost and Scalability The cost of prototyping and scaling remains high due to limited manufacturing facilities. Multiproject wafer (MPW) runs, where multiple designs share fabrication costs, offer an accessible entry point for smaller organizations or first-time designers. However, scaling beyond prototypes to higher volumes continues to be challenging.“New Origin and other initiatives aim to address this by creating scalable manufacturing solutions,” Korthorst added. “This will drive down costs and enable broader industry adoption.”</li><li dir="ltr">Education and Talent Development The field of photonics demands specialized knowledge. While engineers from physics, chemistry, or electrical backgrounds bring valuable expertise, many lack experience in chip design and manufacturing. “Education is key,” Korthorst emphasized. “Training programs and collaborations between universities, research institutions, and design houses are helping bridge this gap.”</li></ol><h2 dir="ltr">How to Break into the Photonics Industry</h2>For engineers aspiring to enter the photonics industry, Korthorst highlighted two primary paths:<ul><li dir="ltr">Theory Experts: Engineers with backgrounds in optics, chemical sensing, or physics have a solid theoretical understanding. However, they can benefit from training programs offered by organizations like AIM Photonics (U.S.) and JePPIX (Europe) to improve their knowledge of chip design. Partnering with design houses like Bright Photonics or Epiphany can also help engineers begin to translate big ideas into PIC designs.</li><li dir="ltr">Chip Designers: Engineers experienced in analog or RF chip design can leverage their existing knowledge to transition into integrated photonics. Because they have the foundation knowledge, they can explore a shorter path to the PIC industry by collaborating with foundries like SMART Photonics or LioniX to gain direct access to the tools and expertise needed to validate their concepts.</li></ul>Regardless of their background, Korthorst encouraged engineers to engage with the ecosystem, attend training sessions, and explore opportunities to enter the industry.<h2 dir="ltr">Crafting a Winning Submission for the Challenge</h2>The&nbsp;Global Photonics Engineering Contest&nbsp;offers a unique opportunity for engineers to bring their ideas to life. With a prize that includes resources to design, prototype, and manufacture a PIC, participants can focus on innovation rather than logistical hurdles. Korthorst shared his advice for crafting a standout submission:<ol><li dir="ltr">Define the Problem Clearly articulate the challenge you aim to address. Explain how PICs can enhance current solutions or unlock new possibilities.</li><li dir="ltr">Showcase Impact Highlight the societal or industrial importance of your idea. Whether it’s advancing healthcare or improving energy efficiency, focus on the broader implications.</li><li dir="ltr">Leverage Collaboration Don’t worry about mastering the technical details alone. The contest’s partners, including leading foundries and design houses, are there to guide you.</li></ol><blockquote>“Set the jury on fire with a great idea,” Korthorst advised. “Focus on the problem and the bigger picture. If your vision excites others, the technical support will follow.”</blockquote><h2 dir="ltr">Your Invitation to Innovate</h2>The Global Photonics Engineering Contest is not just a competition; it’s an invitation to engage with a vibrant ecosystem and contribute to the future of technology. With the contest closing in March, now is the time to submit your ideas and join a community of innovators shaping the next wave of photonic advancements.<a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/global-photonics-engineering-contest?utm_source=photon+delta&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=photonics"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzM0MzQxMTAzNzE5LXBob3RvbiBkZWx0YSAtIE5PVyBMSVZFICgxOTIwIHggNTAwIHB4KSAoMSkucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></a><blockquote>“There’s so much promise in this technology,” Korthorst concluded. “It’s an exciting time to get involved and make an impact.”</blockquote>Whether you’re an industry veteran or a curious newcomer, the challenge is your chance to explore the potential of PICs and turn your ideas into reality.The Global Photonics Engineering Contest invites engineers, innovators, and startups to push the boundaries of Photonic Integrated Circuits (PIC) and create applications that address complex engineering challenges and push the boundaries of the industry. Whether you’re in semiconductors, data &amp; telecom, medtech, or agritech, we want to see your breakthrough idea that can harness the power of PICs to change the world.<ul><li dir="ltr">Prize: €50,000 worth of services from the PhotonDelta ecosystem to to make your idea market-ready + a chance to receive up to €2 million in pre-seed funding.</li><li dir="ltr">Audience: Open to all engineers, researchers, OEMs, hardware manufacturers, startups/scale-ups, research teams, and students working on innovative PIC applications.</li><li dir="ltr">Early Bird Opportunity:&nbsp;All submissions received by 31st December 2024, will receive personalized feedback from PhotonDelta engineers.</li><li dir="ltr">End date: March 3rd 2025</li></ul><a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/global-photonics-engineering-contest?utm_source=photon+delta&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=photonics" class="button-main-action">Find out more here!</a>

Twan Korthorst, CEO of New Origin, highlights their transformative potential in a conversation with Wevolver about the Global Photonics Engineering Contest, hosted in collaboration with PhotonDelta.

The Role of Photonic Integrated Circuits, Breaking into the Industry, and Crafting a Winning Submission

Integrated Photonics, the technology that uses light to power and transmit information, is transforming industries from telecommunications to healthcare. As the demand for high-speed, energy-efficient devices grows, Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs), also known as photonic chips, are paving the way for a new era in tech. Similar to electronic circuits but with photons instead of electrons, PICs enable the miniaturisation and acceleration of processes across sectors, making them a cornerstone of future innovations.<a href="https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/photonic-integrated-circuit-market-107051#:~:text=The%20global%20photonic%20integrated%20circuit,20.8%25%20during%20the%20forecast%20period.">With a global PIC market poised to reach 65 billion by 2030,</a> there’s a pressing need for skilled professionals who are passionate about contributing to this field. Whether you’re a student, a recent graduate, or an experienced engineer looking for a career pivot, opportunities in PICs span across design, research, development, packaging, and manufacturing.<h2 dir="ltr">Understanding Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs)</h2>Photonic Integrated Circuits combine multiple optical functions—like lasers, detectors, and modulators—onto a single chip. This integration results in smaller, faster, and more efficient devices, opening new possibilities in applications such as high-speed internet, advanced medical diagnostics, and data processing.In this article, we discuss the pathways to a career in integrated photonics, whether you are a bachelor's student or an established engineer. We highlight the work PhotonDelta is doing to help create a robust PIC industry.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/an-introduction-to-integrated-photonics">Read more about PICs here.</a><h1 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/global-photonics-engineering-contest?utm_source=photon+delta&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=photonics"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzMzNzQ0MzQzNzc3LXBob3RvbiBkZWx0YSAtIE5PVyBMSVZFICgxOTIwIHggNTAwIHB4KS5wbmciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></a></h1><h1 dir="ltr">Why start a career in PICs:</h1>Building a career in PICS represents a chance to make a mark in a relatively new industry. It offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on sustainable and energy-efficient technologies and solutions. This booming sector has tremendous growth potential across various application areas. Furthermore, you'll get to work in an interdisciplinary and innovative environment.<h2 dir="ltr">Finding your path to a career in Integrated Photonics as a student</h2>A recommended route into PICs is through degrees in engineering, optics, or telecommunications. Programs in electrical engineering, applied physics, and optical sciences offer a strong foundation, with many universities now offering specialised courses in photonics. Further,&nbsp;Mechanical Engineering or Materials Engineering backgrounds are strong favoured in the PIC industry because topics like packaging and assembly of the PIC are very important.For engineers who have completed bachelor's degrees, pursuing a master's in a Photonics program is a solid way to establish a degree in photonics.&nbsp;PhotonDelta and Optics Netherlands recently launched the '<a href="https://www.tue.nl/en/education/graduate-school/masterplus-optics-photonics#:~:text=A%20Master%20with%20an%20additional%20Plus%20in%20Optics%20%26%20Photonics&text=The%20MasterPlus%20offers%20an%20extra,driving%20scientific%20and%20societal%20change.">MasterPlus Programme in Optics and Photonics' (MPOP).</a> This initiative, in collaboration with Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), and the University of Twente (UT), introduces a specialisation within existing master's programs in Applied Physics and Electrical Engineering. MPOP aims to bridge academic expertise with industry needs, offering students the flexibility to attend courses across different campuses and engage in inter-university activities.&nbsp;Participants will have opportunities for internships with leading companies like ASML, Signify, SMART Photonics, and LioniX International, as well as collaborations with research institutes such as SRON and imec. The program seeks to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in the optics and photonics sector, contributing to the Netherlands' position as a global innovation hub in this field. Learn more about the program <a href="https://www.mpop-programme.com/">here</a>.For those already in the workforce, there are various reskilling programs supported by the industry, allowing professionals from other technical backgrounds to leverage their existing skills while gaining new, PIC-specific knowledge.<h2 dir="ltr">Exploring Career Roles in PICs</h2>Whether coming through traditional education routes or via reskilling programs PIC careers offer diverse roles for innovators and problem-solvers alike:<ul><li dir="ltr">Photonics Engineers&nbsp;design and develop the optical components that power PICs.</li><li dir="ltr">Research Scientists&nbsp;push the boundaries of photonics knowledge through experimentation.</li><li dir="ltr">System Designers&nbsp;integrate PICs into broader applications, such as telecom systems.</li><li dir="ltr">Product Managers and Application Engineers&nbsp;work closely with clients to adapt PIC solutions to specific needs.</li></ul><h1 dir="ltr">PhotonDelta’s Role in Shaping Careers in PICs</h1>PhotonDelta supports a global end-to-end ecosystem of photonic chip companies that designs, develops, and manufactures innovative solutions that contribute to a better world.They promote the global adoption of photonic integrated chips by engaging with a diverse range of industries and the academic community.&nbsp;PhotonDelta's Human Capital Program aims to bridge the gap between current and future talent and the needs of the integrated photonics industry. The program focuses on two main objectives:<ol><li dir="ltr">Increasing the attractiveness of a career in integrated photonics: This involves creating a strong industry brand, raising awareness among students at various educational levels, building a community of photonic chip enthusiasts, and implementing marketing activities to attract both national and international talent.</li><li dir="ltr">Expanding the quality and size of the integrated photonics talent pool: PhotonDelta supports educational institutions and training providers to offer comprehensive study programs and reskilling courses. Initiatives include summer schools, challenge-based learning, specialised master's programs, hackathons, and online training sessions.</li><li dir="ltr">Creating employee engagement and loyalty, contributing to talent retention within the industry</li><li dir="ltr">By creating an environment where professionals can learn, collaborate, and grow, the industry sets the foundation for long-term success and positions itself as a leader in the global photonics sector. PhotonDelta initiates expert communities and industry partner meetings to ensure that employees feel welcome and appreciated, keeping talents in the industry.&nbsp;</li></ol>To achieve these goals, PhotonDelta curates and creates pivotal talent market data to inform strategic initiatives. It serves as a connector within its ecosystem, facilitating collaboration among companies, research institutes, and educational institutions. Through strategic investments, PhotonDelta aims to accelerate scalable initiatives that attract and retain talent in the integrated photonics industry.&nbsp;They endeavour to&nbsp;foster a strong photonics community and promote career development in PICs through several key initiatives:<ul><li dir="ltr">Collaborations with Academic Institutions: PhotonDelta partners with universities and technical schools to develop curricula and summer schools tailored to integrated photonics, ensuring students receive industry-relevant education.</li><li dir="ltr">Career Opportunities through PhotonJobs: The<a href="http://www.photonjobs.nl">&nbsp;PhotonJobs platform</a> connects job seekers with leading photonics companies looking for skilled engineers, researchers, and developers.</li><li dir="ltr">Talent outreach activities: PhotonDelta organizes and participates in several activities to introduce talent with a career in the Photonic Chip Industry such as career events, supporting student teams and study associations and offering an introduction to the world of (integrated) photonics already at a young age. &nbsp; &nbsp;</li></ul><h3 dir="ltr">Building a Sustainable Future in Photonics</h3>PhotonDelta’s long-term goal is to create a sustainable talent pipeline for the photonic chip ecosystem by developing comprehensive programs across all educational levels. Through partnerships with industry leaders and educational institutions, PhotonDelta supports the growth of a skilled workforce ready to meet the demands of the evolving photonics landscape.By joining this exciting field, you can play a role in transforming how the world uses light to shape the future of technology. Whether through PhotonDelta's training programs, industry events, or job platform, there are many pathways to a fulfilling career in photonics. Take the first step today and become part of the photonic chip revolution.<hr><h2 id="isPasted">The Global Photonics Engineering Contest is now live!</h2>The Global Photonics Engineering Contest invites engineers, innovators, and startups to push the boundaries of Photonic Integrated Circuits (PIC) and create applications that address complex engineering challenges and push the boundaries of the industry. Whether you’re in semiconductors, data &amp; telecom, medtech, or agritech, we want to see your breakthrough idea that can harness the power of PICs to change the world.<a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/global-photonics-engineering-contest?utm_source=photon+delta&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=photonics"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzMzNzQ0Mzc5NTIxLTE3MzM3NDQzNzk1MjEucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" class="fr-fic fr-dii"></a><ul><li dir="ltr">Prize: €50,000 worth of services from the PhotonDelta ecosystem to to make your idea market-ready + a chance to receive up to €2 million in pre-seed funding.</li><li dir="ltr">Audience: Open to all engineers, researchers, OEMs, hardware manufacturers, startups/scale-ups, research teams, and students working on innovative PIC applications.</li><li dir="ltr">Early Bird Opportunity:&nbsp;All submissions received by 31st December 2024, will receive personalized feedback from PhotonDelta engineers.</li><li dir="ltr">End date: March 3rd 2025</li></ul><a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/global-photonics-engineering-contest?utm_source=photon+delta&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=photonics" class="button-main-action">ENTER THE CHALLENGE NOW</a>

Explore pathways to a career in Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs) for both students and engineers looking to reskill. 

Illuminating Your Path: Building a Career in Integrated Photonics

Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs) are optical microchips that combine multiple optical functions to create an optical circuit. These chips can generate, manipulate, and detect light. Today, PICs are the backbone of high-speed internet as these chips offer high-speed optical connectivity with minimal energy consumption. There has been a growing interest in research and commercial applications for PICs for various markets, including medical technology (MedTech), as they offer compact optical solutions at a low cost when mass-produced.&nbsp;<h2 dir="ltr">Benefits for MedTech</h2>The most significant benefits of PICs for the development and deployment of innovative MedTech systems in healthcare include:<ul><li dir="ltr">High Sensitivity and Reliability: PIC-based biosensors exhibit high sensitivity and reliability. These features enable the deployment in areas such as point-of-care diagnostics, where accurate and rapid results are required for effective patient management.</li><li dir="ltr">Compactness and Miniaturization: PICs enable the development of compact and miniaturized devices, which is particularly advantageous for wearable health devices and lab-on-chip applications. This miniaturization results from the integration of complex optical functions into small form factor chips, which is key for the development of advanced diagnostic and monitoring technologies that are more user-friendly and more accessible.</li><li dir="ltr">Cost-Effectiveness: The integration of photonic components onto a single chip and ability to manufacture them on a large scale, significantly reduces the cost of a chip. Thus, use of PICs makes advanced medical technologies more affordable for widespread use.</li><li dir="ltr">Accelerated Performance: PICs offer improved performance characteristics such as low propagation losses, high power handling, and efficient integration of active components. These features are vital for the development, deployment and operation of high-performance imaging and sensing solutions in healthcare. The latter are enabling more precise diagnostics and better patient outcomes.</li><li dir="ltr">Versatility in Applications: PICs are very versatile and can be used in a wide range of MedTech applications, from biosensing and imaging to environmental monitoring in healthcare-related settings. This adaptability makes PICs capable of addressing diverse medical challenges.</li></ul>Overall, PICs are transforming MedTech based on innovative solutions that enhance the accuracy, efficiency, and accessibility of healthcare technologies. Their ability to integrate multiple functions into single microsystems and devices makes them suitable for a wide range of advanced medical diagnostics and treatment applications.<a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/global-photonics-engineering-contest?utm_source=photon+delta&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=photonics"><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1733744077828-photon+delta+-+NOW+LIVE+%281920+x+500+px%29.png" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></a><h2 dir="ltr">PIC-Enabled Transformative Applications in MedTech</h2>Some of the most prominent MedTech applications that are enabled by PICs include:<h3 dir="ltr">Advanced Diagnostics</h3>PICs are enhancing diagnostic capabilities through technologies like Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), which is a contactless imaging technique that is used for examining living tissue. OCT is a very useful tool for medical diagnostics thanks to its non-invasive imaging capabilities, which enable high-resolution images of biological tissues. PICs can be used to miniaturize OCT systems, making them more accessible and portable for widespread clinical use. For instance, one of the popular applications of OCT is the detection of tumors or eye disorders. Existing OCT equipment is however costly and bulky in size, which prevents the adoption and use of the technology outside hospitals. PICs can alleviate this limitation based on a significant reduction of the size and cost of the devices. Specifically, PICs enable the development of handheld OCT probes, which are based on lasers and detectors that are directly integrated onto the photonic chip.&nbsp;<h3 dir="ltr">Wearable Health Devices</h3>The miniaturization and integration capabilities of PICs make them ideal for the development and integration of wearable health devices. These devices can continuously monitor vital signs such as heart rate, oxygen levels, and glucose levels with high precision. The compact nature of PICs allows for the development of lightweight and comfortable wearables that provide real-time health monitoring. Commercial companies have demonstrated &nbsp;PIC-enabled systems for spectroscopic breath analysis. It can reveal diseases or metabolic disorders based on the detection of trace gases like methane and nitric oxide. In this direction, laser-based absorption spectroscopy is used to combine high sensitivity and high temporal resolution. The miniaturization and mass production offered by PICs can adopt this spectroscopic technique into handheld devices. In this context, commercial companies are attempting to demonstrate a sensor that can be mounted in a smartwatch to enable the monitoring of a range of different biomarkers.&nbsp;<h3 dir="ltr">Point of Care (PoC) Diagnostics</h3>As already outlined, PIC-enabled biosensors can be very efficient in detecting pathogens based on the measurement of changes in the refractive index of their waveguides. The main advantage of such methods is that the resulting measurements can be very accurate. Moreover, based on such devices it is possible to detect different pathogens using a single chip with only a single sample. As a prominent example, <a href="https://www.phix.com/">PHIX</a> provides the packaging for a PoC diagnostics biosensing platform, which is enabled by a PIC that comprises Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Lasers (VCSELs) and photodiodes. The latter are integrated within a Printed Circuit Board (PCB), along with protective layers. This packaging leads to a cost-effective disposable cartridge that can be integrated within a portable diagnostics device.As another example, <a href="https://bialoom.com/">Bialoom</a> integrates PICs in their proprietary silicon plasmo-photonic biosensor technology, which combines silicon photonics and plasmonics. This technology is used to create biochips embedded in disposable cartridges, designed for rapid and sensitive detection of biomarkers from blood samples. The primary application of Biabloom’s biochips is the diagnosis and treatment of severe infections, which provides a point-of-care diagnostic solution that enables quick and evidence-based medical decisions.<h3 dir="ltr">Optical Sensors in Minimally Invasive Surgeries&nbsp;</h3>Minimally invasive surgeries require precision and real-time feedback. PICs enable the development of sophisticated optical sensors that provide surgeons with critical information during procedures. For example, application-specific photonic integrated circuits (ASPICs) can offer haptic feedback to surgeons, which enhances their ability to perform delicate operations with greater accuracy.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1733744489308-robot+1.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">The above-listed applications illustrate that the integration of PICs into MedTech goes beyond mere technological improvements. It enables a paradigm shift that is enabled by a combination of hardware, software and process related innovations (e.g., innovations in diagnostic operations). PIC-enabled solutions are more efficient, cost-effective, and scalable, which enables innovative healthcare solution integration.&nbsp;<h2 dir="ltr">Industry Leaders Insights on the Future of PIC-based MedTech&nbsp;</h2>Recent research initiatives have demonstrated the future of integrating PIC microsystems within MedTech devices and applications. For instance, Maarten Buijs, the CEO of <a href="https://www.surfixdx.com/">Surfix Diagnostics</a> envisions that <a href="https://www.phix.com/markets/medical-devices/">future photonic biochips will integrate both light sources and signal detectors to enable the next generation of point of care devices</a>.&nbsp;In the near future, PICs could be widely used to provide rapid laboratory testing results from simple samples (e.g., urine), which will boost timely diagnostics and more effective treatments. Likewise, PICs will reduce the cost of complexity of blood tests, which could transfer laboratory-level diagnostics at the point of care. As a prominent example, <a href="https://siphoxhealth.com/">SiPhox Health</a> has already developed a silicon photonic chip for <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/siphox-health-introduces-worlds-first-lab-quality-home-blood-testing-platform-at-ces-301714545.html">home-based blood testing</a>, which enables an innovative approach to providing high-quality blood test results quickly and efficiently at home. The company’s solution can measure up to fifty biomarkers from home, which enables patients to gain insights on their heart health, check for inflammation, and access information about the functioning of their thyroid, metabolism, and hormones.There are also PICs applications in biological research beyond PoC diagnostics. As a prominent example, <a href="https://www.imec-int.com/en/articles/integrated-photonics-guiding-light-next-gen-medtech-tools">IMEC highlights the use of silicon nitride-based photonic platforms in medical applications</a>. These platforms could get a boost by the integration of III-V light sources into photonic circuits, which will enable medical tools such as fluorescence microscopy used in DNA sequencing and biological research. Relevant research focuses on the use of photonics on chips to create light interference patterns for very high-resolution <a href="https://www.olympus-lifescience.com/en/microscope-resource/primer/lightandcolor/fluoroexcitation/">fluorescent excitation</a>.&nbsp;Overall, recent advances in PICs and their integration in MedTech applications demonstrate the potential of this technology to transform healthcare. Nowadays, almost 27 years after the development of the<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0925400597802547">&nbsp;first SiN PIC-based sensing devices</a>, there is a growing number of PIC applications that are already transforming diagnostic tools, enhancing wearable devices, and improving surgical outcomes. Most importantly, the precision, size, cost-effectiveness and non-invasive operations advantage of the technology make it an enabler for a whole range of novel healthcare applications that are hardly possible nowadays. In the years to come, it is highly likely that PICs enable innovative applications beyond what is available today, which will further revolutionize healthcare delivery.<hr><h2>The Global Photonics Engineering Contest is now live!</h2>The Global Photonics Engineering Contest invites engineers, innovators, and startups to push the boundaries of Photonic Integrated Circuits (PIC) and create applications that address complex engineering challenges and push the boundaries of the industry. Whether you’re in semiconductors, data &amp; telecom, medtech, or agritech, we want to see your breakthrough idea that can harness the power of PICs to change the world.<a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/global-photonics-engineering-contest?utm_source=photon+delta&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=photonics"><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1733741315174-Untitled+%281920+x+500+px%29+%281%29.png" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></a><ul><li dir="ltr">Prize: €50,000 worth of services from the PhotonDelta ecosystem to to make your idea market-ready + a chance to receive up to €2 million in pre-seed funding.</li><li dir="ltr">Audience: Open to all engineers, researchers, OEMs, hardware manufacturers, startups/scale-ups, research teams, and students working on innovative PIC applications.</li><li dir="ltr">Early Bird Opportunity:&nbsp;All submissions received by 31st December 2024, will receive personalized feedback from PhotonDelta engineers.</li><li dir="ltr">End date: March 3rd 2025</li></ul><a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/global-photonics-engineering-contest?utm_source=photon+delta&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=photonics" class="button-main-action">ENTER THE CHALLENGE NOW</a><hr>

There has been a growing interest in research and commercial applications for PICs for various markets, including medical technology (MedTech), as they offer compact optical solutions at a low cost when mass-produced. 


Unlocking the Power of Photonic Integrated Circuits in MedTech

Photoresist, a light-sensitive material, is essential in photolithography for transferring intricate circuit patterns onto semiconductor wafers. This article explores positive vs. negative photoresists, detailing their chemical mechanisms, processing parameters, and performance traits.

Positive vs. Negative Photoresist: A Comprehensive Guide to Photolithography in Semiconductor Fabrication

<html><head></head><body>The future of photonic integrated circuits (PICs) is brighter than ever, and the Global Photonics Engineering Contest is set to drive this momentum forward. Hosted together by PhotonDelta and Wevolver, this contest calls on tech-savvy engineers and innovators to tackle the engineering challenges of tomorrow. Launched against the backdrop of this year’s PIC Summit, which saw over 700 industry leaders, including government officials, semiconductor experts, and photonics professionals to discuss the future of the photonic chip industry, the contest underscores the urgent need to advance photonic chip technologies to address critical societal challenges.<h2 dir="ltr">The Global Photonics Engineering Challenge: Driving Innovation</h2>The Global Photonics Engineering Challenge is a pioneering contest that is shaping the future of photonic integrated circuit (PIC) engineering. Hosted by PhotonDelta, an industry accelerator of the development of the photonic chip ecosystem, and Wevolver, a platform dedicated to democratizing engineering innovation, the contest highlights the critical role photonics will play in the future of multiple industries. It is further supported by key actors in the integrated photonics industry: imec, PHIX Photonics Assembly, SMART Photonics, BRIGHT integrated Photonics, Epiphany, and LioniX International.The challenge invites participants to design groundbreaking PIC-based solutions across a broad spectrum of industries, from telecommunications and medical devices to quantum computing and environmental monitoring. With the competition focusing on next-generation PICs, participants are encouraged to explore practical applications that could redefine the technological landscape.Winners will not only gain €50,000 of services from the PhotonDelta ecosystem to make their idea market-ready and a chance to receive up to €2 million in pre-seed funding, but will also have the opportunity to get recognition among the global photonics community and collaborate with industry leaders to develop their idea.&nbsp;The competition is open for applications from now until the 3rd of March for any one from startups, established companies, engineers, researchers, students, and academic organizations working on next-generation photonic circuits that tackle pressing societal challenges in areas such as sustainability, healthcare and climate change.&nbsp;This challenge is more than a contest—it’s a way to help shape the future of technology, enabling engineers to demonstrate the potential of PICs in addressing critical societal and industrial challenges.<a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/global-photonics-engineering-contest" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" id="isPasted" class="button-main-action">Read more and apply</a><h3 dir="ltr">Why the Challenge Matters</h3>This year's PIC Summit highlighted the need for innovation and collaboration to continue advancing the applications of integrated photonics, &nbsp;as it is rapidly becoming a critical component in many industries, thanks to its ability to provide ultra-fast data transmission, energy-efficient computing, and compact hardware. However, the design and integration of PICs remain complex. Engineers must overcome significant challenges related to fabrication, power consumption, and scalability. The Global Photonics Engineering Challenge serves as a platform for innovators to present creative solutions to these challenges while showcasing the untapped potential of photonic technologies.For engineers, this challenge offers an opportunity to work on cutting-edge technology, collaborate with leading professionals, and contribute to transformative solutions. It highlights the critical role that PIC engineering plays in solving global problems and drives home the importance of continuing advancements in this field.<h2 dir="ltr">Key Highlights and Insights from PIC Summit 2024</h2>The&nbsp;PIC Summit 2024&nbsp;was a hub of cutting-edge discussions, bringing together over 700 leaders from governments, the semiconductor industry, and the photonic chip sector. The focus of the summit was to explore how photonics can drive the next wave of technological advancements. Leaders emphasized the need for greater European cooperation to remain competitive in the global market and stressed the importance of government support to fuel innovation.<h3 dir="ltr">Three Key Themes from This Year’s PIC Summit:</h3><ol><li dir="ltr">Industry Roadmaps and Trends: Discussions on the global photonics roadmap provided valuable insights into where the industry is headed. Experts delved into the latest advancements in materials, fabrication techniques, and applications that are driving the photonic sector forward.</li><li dir="ltr">The Role of Startups and SMEs: This year's PIC Summit highlighted the crucial role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups in pushing the boundaries of PIC technology. The summit saw several sessions where start ups pitch their applications in biosensing, quantum computing and imaging.</li><li dir="ltr">Quantum Computing and Photonics: With the rise of quantum computing, photonics is being explored as a viable technology to enable the creation of quantum bits (qubits) at scale. Sessions dedicated to this topic revealed how photonics could overcome current quantum computing challenges, particularly in scaling and error correction.</li></ol><h3 dir="ltr">Be a Part of The Future of Photonic Integrated Circuit Engineering: Apply to the Global Photonics Engineering Challenge</h3>The PIC Summit 2024 and the&nbsp;Global Photonics Engineering Challenge&nbsp;represent a monumental shift in how the world views photonic integrated circuits. As governments, industries, and engineers come together to drive the next wave of photonic innovation, the future holds immense potential for transformative applications in a variety of fields.For engineers, this is an exciting time. Whether you are involved in telecommunications, computing, healthcare, or environmental technologies, photonic integrated circuits are set to change the game. The&nbsp;Global Photonics Engineering Challenge&nbsp;offers a unique opportunity to contribute to this revolution while gaining recognition in an industry that is poised for exponential growth.<a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/global-photonics-engineering-contest" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="button-main-action">&nbsp;Read more and apply</a></body></html>

Industry Leaders Emphasize the Role of Innovation and Cooperation in Developing Integrated Photonic Applications to Address Societal Challenges.

The Future of Photonics: Global Engineering Challenge Officially Launced at PIC Summit 2024

Exploring Silicon Photonics: Shaping the Future of Optical Communication

Silicon Photonics: A Comprehensive Guide to the Future of Optical Communications

Integrated photonics, also known as planar lightwave circuits or integrated optical circuits, revolutionizes optical communication by leveraging the properties of light to process and transmit information. This cutting-edge technology offers superior efficiency and compactness compared to traditional electronic components, paving the way for faster and more energy-efficient communication systems. With its interdisciplinary nature encompassing materials science, quantum physics, and electrical engineering, integrated photonics presents an exciting and promising field of study and research in today's digital era.


Integrated Photonics: Comprehensive Guide to Optical Communication

Engineers at Caltech and the University of Southampton in England have collaboratively designed an electronics chip integrated with a photonics chip (which uses light to transfer data)&mdash;creating a cohesive final product capable of transmitting information at ultrahigh speed while generating minimal heat.Though the two-chip sandwich is unlikely to find its way into your laptop, the new design could influence the future of data centers that manage very high volumes of data communication.&quot;Every time you are on a video call, stream a movie, or play an online video game, you&#39;re routing data back and forth through a data center to be processed,&quot; says Caltech graduate student Arian Hashemi Talkhooncheh (MS &#39;16), lead author of a paper describing the two-chip innovation that was published in the&nbsp;IEEE Journal of Solid-State Circuits on November 3. &quot;There are more than 2,700 data centers in the U.S. and more than 8,000 worldwide, with towers of servers stacked on top of each other to manage the load of thousands of terabytes of data going in and out every second.&quot;Just as your laptop heats up on your lap while you use it, the towers of servers in data centers that keep us all connected also heat up as they work, just at a much greater scale. Some data centers are even built underwater to cool whole facility more easily. The more efficient they can be made, the less heat they will generate, and ultimately, the greater the volume of information that they will be able to manage.Data processing is done on electronic circuits, while data transmission is most efficiently done using photonics. Achieving ultrahigh speed in each domain is very challenging, but engineering the interface between them is even more difficult.&quot;There is a continuous demand for increasing the speed of data communication between different chips not only in data centers but also in high-performance computers. As the computing power of the chips scale, the communication speed can become the bottleneck, especially under stringent energy constraints,&quot; says&nbsp;<a href="https://eas.caltech.edu/people/azita" target="_blank">Azita Emami</a>, the Andrew and Peggy Cherng Professor of Electrical Engineering and Medical Engineering; executive officer for electrical engineering; and senior author of the paper.To address this challenge, the Caltech/Southampton team designed both an electronics chip and a photonics chip from the ground up and co-optimized them to work together. The process, from the initial idea to the final test in the lab, took four years to complete, with every design choice impacting both chips.&quot;We had to optimize the entire system all at the same time, which enabled achieving a superior power efficiency,&quot; Hashemi says. &quot;These two chips are literally made for each other, integrated into one another in three dimensions.&quot;The resulting optimized interface between the two chips allows them to transmit 100 gigabits of data per second while producing just 2.4 pico-Joules per transmitted bit. This improves the electro-optical power efficiency of the transmission by a factor of 3.6 compared to the current state-of-the-art. A picojoule is one-trillionth of a Joule, which is defined as the energy released in one second by a current of 1 ampere through a resistance of 1 ohm&mdash;or about 0.24 calories.&quot;As the world becomes more and more connected, and every device generates more data, it is exciting to show that we can achieve such high data rates while burning a fraction of power compared to the traditional techniques,&quot; says Emami.The paper is titled &quot;<a href="https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/9938431" target="_blank">A 100Gb/s PAM4 Optical Transmitter in A 3D-Integrated SiPh-CMOS Platform Using Segmented MOSCAP Modulators</a>.&quot; Co-authors include Caltech graduate student Minwo Wang (MS &#39;18) as well as Weiwei Zhang, David J. Thomson, Martin Ebert, Li Ke, and Graham T. Reed of the University of Southampton. This research was funded by Rockley Photonics and the U.K. Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council.

The chip sandwich: an electronics chip (the smaller chip on the top) integrated with a photonics chip, sitting atop a penny for scale. (Credit: Arian Hashemi Talkhooncheh)

Engineers at Caltech and the University of Southampton have collaboratively designed an electronics chip integrated with a photonics chip (which uses light to transfer data)—creating a cohesive final product capable of transmitting information at ultrahigh speed while generating minimal heat.

Electronic-Photonic Chip Sandwich Pushes Boundaries of Computing and Data Transmission Efficiency

PhotonFirst develops and manufactures photonics sensing technologies to measure temperature, strain, pressure, shape and acceleration in objects ranging from buildings to airplanes to medical devices. On the occasion of the opening of their new office at High Tech Campus Eindhoven, we asked CEO Daan Kersten about their developments and ambitions, which include a stock market listing within the next five years.Although PhotonFirst&rsquo;s experience in photonics spans over fifteen years the company only came into existence this year, having hived off from their sister company Technobis in Alkmaar. With the new name also came a new ambition, to grow fast and float the company on the stock market in five years&rsquo; time. And they hired a new CEO to make that happen. Daan Kersten, who headed the 3D-print company Additive Industries for nearly eight years, is tasked with making PhotonFirst grow into a multinational with a hundred million euro turnover. &nbsp;&ldquo;Eindhoven and especially the High Tech Campus is the hotspot of the photonics industry in The Netherlands, so it made sense to open a second office here,&rdquo; Kersten explains their move to Campus. &ldquo;We already had intensive partnerships with SMARTPhotonics and BRIGHT Integrated Photonics, who help us design and manufacture our photonics chips. They are also located in Eindhoven, so it&rsquo;s good to be geographically close. And Eindhoven is full of the kind of talent we need to support our growth.&rdquo;<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nECSgTxGfiU?&wmode=opaque&rel=0&enablejsapi=1&origin=https://www.wevolver.com" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" style="width: 767px; height: 436px;"></iframe><h2 id="isPasted">Airplane wing</h2>PhotonFirst is one of the pioneers in integrated photonics sensing. They develop and distribute photonics chips and sensors that accurately measure the condition, use and wear and tear of an object, machine or system. Think of the shape of airplane wings, the strain on a bridge or the downforce on a race car.Integrated photonics, the technology of light, is a relatively new and more efficient way to measure these parameters. Kersten: &ldquo;Traditionally strain was measured with bulky electrical units and strain gauges. Our sensors are integrated into glass fibers, which means they are much smaller and lighter. You can basically install them anywhere, which is why the aerospace industry is interested since it can be mounted into an airplane wing. And because we don&rsquo;t work with electronics there is no disturbance through magnetic or electronic fields. These benefits make data collection more reliable and accessible.&rdquo;Data is the new gold of the maintenance industry, since it tells you exactly when fatigue occurs and parts have to be maintained, repaired or replaced. That is why integrated photonics sensing is considered a breakthrough technology for smarter maintenance by adding predictive and preventive capabilities.<h2>Heartbeat in a blood vessel</h2>So how does the technology work exactly? The basics are simple enough: a glass fiber cable is outfitted with tiny mirrors called Fibre Bragg Gratings (FBGs). A light signal is shot through the cable and partially reflected by the FBG mirrors. Any force or pressure impacting the object where the glass fiber is installed, like the wind on the rotor of a wind turbine or the pounding of thousands of cars on a bridge, will alter the shape of the glass fiber cable, which in turn changes the position of the mirrors and consequently the properties of the light reflected. Because the FBGs will reflect the light differently depending on the force of pressure, it tells you everything you need to know about how the object behaves, expands, shrinks, changes or degenerates over time.As a practical example of how this technology is used Kersten says they are currently exploring ways in which they can measure the temperature in the battery packs of electric cars. The energy efficiency and range of electric cars depends for a large part on the temperature distribution in the batteries. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s almost impossible to measure that with the conventional measurement systems,&rdquo; Kersten says. &ldquo;But our technology allows measurements in many different places inside the batteries without increasing their size or adding more weight to the car. This could significantly improve the driving range of electric cars.&rdquo;Another inspiring example is in the medical field, where PhotonFirst conducts experiments with surgeons on haptic feedback. During minimally invasive surgery, like inserting a hollow tube through a patient&rsquo;s skin, PhotonFirst&rsquo;s system can let the surgeon know exactly how much pressure he is exerting on the pincher that is holding the tissue. The FBGs inside the surgical tool respond to the stress and strain in the pincher and translate these to haptic feedback on the handle of the tool. Surgeons said they could feel the heartbeat in the blood vessel through the handle bar. The added value of feeling their own pressure allows surgeons to handle the instrumentation even more effectively for the benefit of the patient&rsquo;s treatment.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1660222294121-Daan+AJ+Kersten%2C+foto+Beeld+Werkt.jpg" style="width: 766px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><h2 id="isPasted">Global innovation leader</h2>Apart from automotive and medical PhotonFirst also has clients in aerospace, high-tech systems, energy and infrastructure markets. Most clients are located abroad, with Asia and North America as the biggest growth markets. The ultimate ambition is to become global innovation leader in integrated photonics sensing. To make that happen they need to achieve more volume in their applications, says Kersten. &ldquo;When we&rsquo;re able to produce our systems in large volumes the technology becomes much cheaper, which makes it more attractive to investors.&rdquo;The biggest bottleneck to the growth is the fact that photonics is still a relatively unknown field for many business leaders, Kersten says. That is why he wants to use the next few years to actively identify the best possible applications together with their clients.To do that PhotonFirst is growing the team and is looking for good technical salespeople who can help shape their international expansion. &ldquo;Anyone interested can contact us.&rdquo;

PhotonFirst develops and manufactures photonics sensing technologies to measure temperature, strain, pressure, shape and acceleration in objects ranging from buildings to airplanes to medical devices.

PhotonFirst wants to become global innovation leader in integrated photonics sensing

Erbium-doped fiber amplifiers (EDFAs) are devices that can provide gain to the optical signal power in optical fibers, often used in long-distance communication fiber optic cables and fiber-based lasers. Invented in the 1980s, EDFAs are arguably one of the most important inventions, and have profoundly impacted our information society enabling signals to be routed across the Atlantic and replacing electrical repeaters.What is interesting about erbium ions in optical communications is that they can amplify light in the 1.55 mm wavelength region, which is where silica-based optical fibers have the lowest transmission loss. The unique electronic intra-4-f shell structure of erbium &ndash; and rare-earth ions in general &ndash; enables long-lived excited states when doped inside host materials such as glass. This provides an ideal gain medium for simultaneous amplification of multiple information-carrying channels, with negligible cross-talk, high temperature stability and low noise figure.Optical amplification is also used in virtually all laser applications, from fiber sensing and frequency metrology, to industrial applications including laser-machining and LiDAR. Today, optical amplifiers based on rare-earth ions have become the workhorse for optical frequency combs (2005 Nobel Prize in Physics), which are used to create the world&rsquo;s most precise atomic clocks.Achieving light amplification with rare-earth ions in photonic integrated circuit can transform integrated photonics. Already in the 1990s, Bell Laboratories were looking into erbium-doped waveguide amplifiers (EDWAs), but ultimately abandoned them because their gain and output power could not match fiber-based amplifiers, while their fabrication doesn&rsquo;t work with contemporary photonic integration manufacturing techniques.Even with the recent rise of integrated photonics, renewed efforts on EDWAs have only been able to achieve less than 1 mW output power, which is not enough for many practical applications. The problem here has been high waveguide background loss, high cooperative upconversion &ndash; a gain-limiting factor at high erbium concentration, or the long-standing challenge in achieving meter-scale waveguide lengths in compact photonic chips.Now, researchers at EPFL, led by Professor Tobias J. Kippenberg, have built an EDWA based on silicon nitride (Si3N4) photonic integrated circuits of a length up to half meter on a millimeter-scale footprint, generating a record output power of more than 145 mW and providing a small-signal net gain above 30 dB, which translates to over 1000-fold amplification in the telecommunication band in continuous operation. This performance matches the commercial, high-end EDFAs, as well as state-of-the-art heterogeneously integrated III-V semiconductor amplifiers in silicon photonics.﻿&ldquo;We overcame the longstanding challenge by applying ion implantation &ndash; a wafer-scale process that benefits from very low cooperative upconversion even at a very high ion concentration &ndash; to the ultralow-loss silicon nitrideintegrated photonic circuits,&rdquo; says Dr Yang Liu, a researcher in Kippenberg&rsquo;s lab, and the study&rsquo;s lead scientist.&ldquo;This approach allows us to achieve low loss, high erbium concentration, and a large mode-ion overlap factor in compact waveguides with meter-scale lengths, which have previously remained unsolved for decades,&rdquo; says Zheru Qiu, a PhD student and co-author of the study.﻿&ldquo;Operating with high output power and high gain is not a mere academic achievement; in fact, it is crucial to the practical operation of any amplifier, as it implies that any input signals can reach the power levels that are sufficient for long-distance high-speed data transmission and shot-noise limited detection; it also signals that high-pulse-energy femtosecond-lasers on a chip can finally become possible using this approach,&rdquo; says Kippenberg.The breakthrough signals a renaissance of rare-earth ions as viable gain media in integrated photonics, as applications of EDWAs are virtually unlimited, from optical communications and LiDAR for autonomous driving, to quantum sensing and memories for large quantum networks. It is expected to trigger follow-up studies that cover even more rare-earth ions, offering optical gain from the visible up to the mid-infrared part of the spectrum and even higher output power.<hr>ReferencesYang Liu, Zheru Qiu, Xinru Ji, Anton Lukashchuk, Jijun He, Johann Riemensberger, Martin Hafermann, Rui Ning Wang, Junqiu Liu, Carsten Ronning, and Tobias J. Kippenberg. A photonic integrated circuit based erbium-doped amplifier. Science, 17 June 2022. DOI:&nbsp;<a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1126/science.abo2631" rel="noopener" target="_blank">10.1126/science.abo2631</a>

An erbium-doped waveguide amplifier on a photonic integrated chip. Credit: EPFL Laboratory of Photonics and Quantum Measurements/Niels Ackerman

EPFL scientists have built a compact waveguide amplifier by successfully incorporating rare-earth ions into integrated photonic circuits. The device produces record output power compared to commercial fiber amplifiers, a first in the development of integrated photonics over the last decades.

Boosting light power revolutionizes communications and autopilot

IntroductionOptical communication has been around for millennia, while the earliest electrical device created to do so was the photophone, invented in 1880. Fast forward to the present, the potential of optics and photonics for communication is rapidly expanding and will be the foundation of future communication systems. This article provides an overview of the data communications applications where integrated photonics will make a significant impact in the coming decades.<h3>Integrated Photonics in Data Centers</h3>The combined storage capacities of all the data centers of the world surpass 13 Exabytes. For context, 1 Exabyte is roughly equal to 1 billion Gigabytes. This number is only set to grow as new possibilities open up in the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and Big data.As the amount of data transfer increases, the conventional copper cables used for interconnecting the servers tend to bottleneck the bandwidth of the entire system. Typically, a copper cable hits its limits within a few Gbps, whereas the limits of an optic fiber are purely theoretical.This is the reason why making use of Integrated Photonics and optic fibers present as the best way to combat the bottleneck. The crazy hundreds of GBps or TBps transfer speed and ultra-low latencies required in the data centers are realizable with PICs. But the applications of PICs are not just limited to that. Instead of simply replacing all the copper wires with optic cables, silicon photonics can be used to make onboard components like high-bandwidth transmitters and receivers.PICs can be used for anything from enabling communication between two chips on a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) to long-haul communications for data center interconnects. The possibilities are endless. A significant improvement in the performance of data centers can be achieved by using optic fiber communication and PICs in data centers.Another issue that needs our attention is the increasing energy demand of the data centers. Data centers are estimated to consume more than 3% of the world’s total electricity, which seems relatively small, but with the voracious demand for connected devices, cloud computing, and systems, the potential for this to exponentially jump is viable.[3]Cooling systems alone account for the highest energy consumption within the data centers. Compared to conventional electronics, systems that are powered by photonics generate a lot less heat. Hence, PICs don’t require any dedicated cooling systems; and not having dedicated cooling systems eventually reduce the overall electricity consumption. [4]<h3>Integrated Photonics in Intercontinental communication</h3>Fiber-optic communication is probably among the earliest applications of photonics. The technology works on the principle of total internal reflection. First, the data at the source is encoded into optical signals. These signals are sent via an optic fiber to the receiver, where the signals are converted back to their original forms. The signals are reflected multiple times internally in the core of the communication link before finally reaching the destination.<div class="fr-img-space-wrap"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjM0OTA1NTkwNTMxLVBpY3R1cmUyLnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 788px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Undersea optic fiber link. Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://acacia-inc.com/blog/undersea-fiber-cables-are-connecting-our-world/" id="isPasted" target="_blank">Arcadia Communication (Cisco)</a></div>Optic fiber is the fastest mode of wired communication known yet. The first optic fiber communication systems were developed by German physicist Manfred Börner back in the year 1965. It was then the idea of reducing the attenuation of optic fibers below 20 dB/Km seemed possible. In the decades that followed, developments in optic fibers led to a drastic reduction in the attenuation levels, and optic fibers with attenuation of under 4 dB/Km were made available. This reduced the number of repeaters required between a link, ultimately bringing down the cost of the setup.[5]Even though the initial establishment of optic fiber communication seemed higher at first, over the long run, the technology emerged as an affordable alternative to conventional copper wires. This caught the interest of telecom companies that started adopting it for long-range communication. Today, the technology has become the most widely accepted mode of wired communication between cities, states, and nations.<h3>Integrated Photonics for Vehicular communication</h3>The world is shifting from vehicles that run on fossil fuels to electric and hybrid vehicles.[6]&nbsp;While Electric Vehicles (EVs) are completely powered by electricity, hybrid vehicles can smartly switch between petrol/diesel and electricity.<div class="fr-img-space-wrap"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjM0OTA1NjM3NTI0LVBpY3R1cmUzLnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 788px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Cars from the future. Mercedes Benz Vision Avtr Concept. Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mercedes-benz.com/en/vehicles/passenger-cars/mercedes-benz-concept-cars/vision-avtr/" id="isPasted" target="_blank">Mercedes</a></div>But a truly smart EV is much more than just a vehicle powered by electricity. It is a complete package of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) enhancing the traveling experience. There is a lot of real-time computing occurring, and with self-driving vehicles, the amount of computing and communication speed required is even higher.The collection (and processing) of data from all the sensors in the electric vehicle can be done faster with integrated photonics. Check out our previous article, <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/the-road-ahead-for-integrated-photonics-in-automotive" target="_blank">The Road Ahead for Integrated Photonics in Automotive</a>, for more on the topic.<h3>Applications of Integrated Photonics in 6G networks</h3>5G networking services have recently picked up pace in different parts of the world, and we’re yet to hit its limits. The next generation of mobile networks is anticipated to be rolled out by the end of this decade, and integrated photonics has the potential to play a key role in the development of this technology. [7]6G could be based on photonics defined radio.&nbsp;[8] This will bring the benefits of optics to mobile communication. We are still not sure how fast the future network will be, but if speculations are to be believed, the speeds could touch a whopping 1 TBps mark. The technology might even bring free-space optical communication to the table. 3D holographic videos, 8K streaming, AR/VR, cloud gaming, smart vehicles, and cities are just some areas where 6G is set to bring big changes.<h2>Scalability of the technology</h2>There are some significant hurdles to cross when it comes to making photonic communication a widely implemented technology. Dispersion is one such problem that arises due to imperfections in the design of optic fibers (birefringence).[9] This affects long-distance photonic communication. Optical systems also suffer from harsh crosstalk. Then there are unwanted signals in a communication channel (as in a telephone, radio, or computer) caused by transference of energy from another circuit. Another scalability problem stems from the acute shortage of skilled engineers and technicians in the photonics industry. As a result of all the challenges, the scaling of integrated photonics has been almost 10x slower than conventional electronic ICs. [11]<h2>Conclusion</h2>In this article, we discussed the basic principles of PIC-based communication and explained the various applications of the technology. We also listed some of the challenges that researchers face today when working with PICs.It is necessary to understand that this is just a beginning for integrated photonics, much like how the period of the 1960s and 1970s was for electronics. The next decade is crucial for the research and development of integrated photonics, and its use in applications such as data centers not only provides benefits for speed but can help deliver a more energy-efficient future.About the sponsor: PhotonDelta&nbsp;<a href="https://www.photondelta.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">PhotonDelta</a> is a growth accelerator for the Dutch integrated photonics industry. PhotonDelta works with partners across the industry, including universities, startups, and established foundries, to develop a solid industry growth strategy and funding opportunities that will enable the integrated photonics industry to reach its potential. PhotonDelta has developed several roadmaps that outline growth paths for Integrated Photonic technologies, including automotive and biosensing. They are currently working on a data and communications roadmap that we will outline in our next article. You can register now for the launch of the roadmap&nbsp;<a href="https://photondelta.us3.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=8e6bf2c7a8e8141c613f65d0f&id=a42b86da52" target="_blank">here.</a><h3>References and further reading:</h3>[1] What Is a Data Center?, accessed 19 April 2021 &lt;<a href="https://www.cisco.com/c/en_in/solutions/data-center-virtualization/what-is-a-data-center.html" target="_blank">https://www.cisco.com/c/en_in/solutions/data-center-virtualization/what-is-a-data-center.html</a>&gt;[2] Data center storage capacity worldwide from 2016 to 2021, by segment, accessed 21 April 2021 <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/638593/worldwide-data-center-storage-capacity-cloud-vs-traditional/" target="_blank">https://www.statista.com/statistics/638593/worldwide-data-center-storage-capacity-cloud-vs-traditional/</a>[3] How Much Energy Do Data Centers Really Use?, accessed 19 April 2021 &lt;<a href="https://energyinnovation.org/2020/03/17/how-much-energy-do-data-centers-really-use/" target="_blank">https://energyinnovation.org/2020/03/17/how-much-energy-do-data-centers-really-use/</a>&gt;[4] The evolution of data center cooling, accessed 19 April 2021 &lt;<a href="https://www.deltapowersolutions.com/en-in/mcis/technical-article-the-evolution-of-data-center-cooling.php" target="_blank">https://www.deltapowersolutions.com/en-in/mcis/technical-article-the-evolution-of-data-center-cooling.php</a>&gt;[5] Wikipedia contributors, 'Optical fiber', Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, accessed 22 September 2021 &lt;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Optical_fiber" target="_blank">https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Optical_fiber</a>&gt;[6] What you need to know about electromobility, accessed 19 April 2021 &lt;<a href="https://www.infineon.com/cms/en/discoveries/electromobility/" target="_blank">https://www.infineon.com/cms/en/discoveries/electromobility/</a>&gt;[7] B. Zong, C. Fan, X. Wang, X. Duan, B. Wang and J. Wang, "6G Technologies: Key Drivers, Core Requirements, System Architectures, and Enabling Technologies," in IEEE Vehicular Technology Magazine, vol. 14, no. 3, pp. 18-27, Sept. 2019, doi: 10.1109/MVT.2019.2921398.[8] Z. Baiqing, Z. Xiaohong, L. Xiaotong, W. Jianli and C. Yijun, "Photonics Defined Radio: Concept, Architecture and Applications," 2017 Asia Communications and Photonics Conference (ACP), Guangzhou, China, 2017, pp. 1-3.[9] Polarization Mode Dispersion: Concepts and Measurement, accessed 19 April 2021 &lt;<a href="https://www.photonics.com/Articles/Polarization_Mode_Dispersion_Concepts_and/a25153" target="_blank">https://www.photonics.com/Articles/Polarization_Mode_Dispersion_Concepts_and/a25153</a>&gt;[10] Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing, accessed 19 April 2021 &nbsp;&lt;<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/computer-science/dense-wavelength-division-multiplexing" target="_blank">https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/computer-science/dense-wavelength-division-multiplexing</a>&gt;[11] Photonic Integrated Circuits for Optical Communications, accessed 19 April 2021 &lt;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wqb2DWlJT4E" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wqb2DWlJT4E</a>&gt;

Inside the world’s largest data center, the Citadel by Switch. Source: TechVision

Integrated Photonics holds the potential to change data communication. Here’s a glimpse of the connected future.

Integrated Photonics in Data Communication: Applications in different sectors and trends

Together with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wevolver.com/profile/ansys" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ansys</a>, a developer of simulation software, we are creating a series of content about the technologies that make sustainable transportation possible. &nbsp;Read the foundation article of the series <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/decarbonization-sustainability-and-innovations-in-transportation-and-mobility" target="_blank">here</a>, and our introduction to the Indy Autonomous Challenge&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/the-indy-autonomous-challenge" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here.</a>Integrated Photonics (IP) is the use of light for applications traditionally tackled by electronics. IP can be used in telecommunications, medical applications, and automotive applications. IP integrates multiple photonic functions on a Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) fabricated using automated wafer-scale generic integration technology over silicon, silica, or Indium Phosphide (InP) substrates. Complex photonic integrated circuits can generate, process, and detect light, in analogy to how electronic integrated circuits do for electronic signals by way of connecting multiple discrete single-function components and relevant optical interfaces.&nbsp;<h2 dir="ltr">Complex systems require advanced methods of design support</h2>PICs have undergone a dramatic increase in complexity in recent years, with the number of photonic components integrated on a single chip continuously increasing.[1] Microelectronics reached this milestone of integration over 40 years ago with the emergence of the first analysis programs for electronic circuits (ECs). In a similar way, software tools enabling the automated design process and testing for PICs are now an important prerequisite for increasing the number of integrated elements per chip, lowering their production costs, and broadening their application reach.&nbsp;<div class="fr-img-space-wrap">&nbsp;<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjMwMDU0OTg0MjkxLWV6Z2lmLmNvbS1naWYtbWFrZXIgKDEzKS5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 788px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="Illustration of a cutaway optical sensor">A simulation of a fiber optical connector interacting with electronic systems.</div><h3 dir="ltr">Delivering Photonic Circuit Simulation</h3>PIC design comes with unique challenges, including layout, error checking, and circuit modeling. While electronic designers use a traditional electronic design automation (EDA) flow, standard EDA flows simply aren’t equipped to integrate photonics circuits and components into their electronic counterparts reliably or effectively. There is a multitude of simulation options available for PIC designers and engineers. The unique requirements of the sector have spurred several open source[2] or low-cost software projects in addition to <a href="https://www.ansys.com/blog/lumerical-integrated-photonics-technology" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">significant investment</a> from leading simulation companies. The complexity of PICs continues to be a challenge for simulation software developers who have to address both amplitude and phase modulation in each component, which makes it very difficult to predict the behavior of large circuits with many components due to interference effects. Specialized and specific PIC simulation software allows the design of photonic components, circuits, and systems and enables modeling of the interaction between optical, electrical, and thermal effects.&nbsp;<h2 dir="ltr">Photonic Integrated Circuits for Automotive applications &nbsp;</h2>As the amount of electronic content in cars continues to increase the potential for PIC also rises rapidly. &nbsp;There is a wide range of applications within both fully electric and increasingly electrified ICE motor vehicles suitable for PIC. PICs have the potential to be a crucial element that enables electric and electric autonomous cars to become ubiquitous. Just as with automotive design discussed in previous articles in this series, simulation software plays a vital role in designing PICs and the systems they are a part of.&nbsp;<h3 dir="ltr">Integrated simulation for accurate LIDAR design&nbsp;</h3>All self-driving vehicles require various sensors to form a perception of their surroundings and navigate to the destination. These sensors act as the eyes and ears for automobiles. LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) is a leading choice for many manufacturers.&nbsp;The circuitry of LIDAR is exceptionally complex. Both the sensing photonics and controlling electronics need to be developed with meticulous care. &nbsp;Like many other ADAS technologies, LIDAR systems will likely incorporate PIC into future designs, enabling faster, lower cost, and smaller circuits to be deployed. &nbsp;Simulation plays a vital role in developing and testing LIDAR technology. &nbsp;However, for LIDAR systems that use PICs, simulation of just the LIDAR module is not enough to ensure the device’s optimum performance.&nbsp;<div class="fr-img-space-wrap"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjMwMDU1NDE3Mjk1LWV6Z2lmLmNvbS1naWYtbWFrZXIgKDE0KS5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 788px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="Simulated city street with a vehicle with simulated antenna beams">Lidar simulation. Image credit Ansys.</div>Using <a href="https://www.ansys.com/blog/lumerical-integrated-photonics-technology" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">specialized integrated photonic simulations</a>, engineers can assess the performance of the emitting laser, as well as the nanoscale integrated phased array (or liquid crystal) used to form and steer the beam. The laser beam propagation and its interaction with the environment are then modeled using macroscopic optical simulation technology. Then, engineers can model how the integrated sensor receives the laser signal calculated from the macroscopic optical simulation.In the past, when simulating LIDAR systems, users needed to acquire integrated photonic information from measurements or vendors, but in recently launched simulation packages, this data is already integrated, assisting engineers to create high-fidelity simulations that can help them optimize source and detector designs. Additionally, various foundries have also partnered with simulation developers to provide engineers with high-quality photonic process design kits (PDKs). As a result, engineers can simulate and characterize a full electro-optical communication or sensing system.<h2 dir="ltr">Conclusion</h2>PICs will herald a new era of exponential innovation with a significant impact on the automotive sector. Simulation tools will play a vital role in the automotive industry to rapidly conceptualize, test, and implement the upcoming technologies powered by Integrated Photonics. Advanced simulation packages that provide complex data suites and integration with foundries will assist in the rapid development of essential technologies such as LIDAR, critical to a decarbonized transportation future.&nbsp;<h2 dir="ltr">About the sponsor: Ansys</h2>Through the extensive range of simulation software, Ansys enables innovators to take over challenging problems in engineering. In the automotive sector, simulation of battery management systems, electric motors, structural assemblies, advanced embedded software, electronic chips, networks, sensors, and a lot more is made simple by Ansys.<a href="https://www.ansys.com/blog/lumerical-integrated-photonics-technology" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ansys Lumerical&nbsp;</a>is an advanced photonics simulation suite that enables engineers to model the most challenging problems in photonics. The software is an all-in-one solution for carrying out the device and system-level simulations. Ansys Lumerical also comes with scripting support and can interface with popular third-party applications like MATLAB and Python for numerical analysis, visualization, and optimization. With Ansys, it is possible to exponentially innovate and engineer what’s ahead in the automobile industry.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjMwMDU1NTQzNDAwLUFuc3lzIGJhbm5lciBpbWFnZS5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 788px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> <h2 dir="ltr">References:</h2>1. Smit M, van der Tol J, Hill M. Moore's law in photonics. Laser &amp; Photonics Reviews. 2011;6(1):1-13.2. Ploeg S, Gunther H, Camacho R. Simphony: An Open-Source Photonic Integrated Circuit Simulation Framework. Computing in Science &amp; Engineering. 2021;23(1):65-74.&nbsp;

Next-gen simulation tools accelerate innovation for Integrated Photonic automotive applications. 

Simulation accelerates the development of Photonic Integrated Circuits for automotive applications

<section>Photonic chips, powered by light rather than electricity, are the future. They will pave the way for self-driving vehicles, innovations in healthcare, and, of course, energy-efficient data and telecommunications. But bridging academic research to industry is not so straightforward. With this in mind, TU Eindhoven, University of Twente, TNO and PhotonDelta are launching the Photonic Integration Technology Center&nbsp;(PITC), a R&amp;D center focused on accelerating the development of integrated photonics technology.</section><section tabindex="-1">The possibilities of our current electronic chip technology are slowly but surely reaching their limits due to resistance, which is released in the form of heat as electrons travel through the copper conduits between transistors in chips. That resistance weakens the signal as it passes through the material. &nbsp;Unlike electrons, light particles, or photons, lack mass and charge so they do not experience resistance. Moreover, light has properties allowing it to carry much more information, making it the ideal technique to accelerate the transfer of data within and between chips. Provided you know how to tame the light in the right way.<h3>From Lab To Fab</h3>TU/e has been putting significant investments into this lighting technology for years, and is a global leader in integrated photonic research. And while TU/e is well known for its close cooperation with industry, making the step from lab to factory could do with an extra push. Hence the new Photonic Integration Technology Center.Sylwester Latkowski, TU/e researcher and the brand-new scientific director of the Center: "This R&amp;D center will build a bridge to really get photonic chips to the market. In fact, we experience a gap when it comes to maturing the technology. As researchers, we work up to an advanced prototype, but the industry lacks the resources to move forward with that," Latkowski explains.<h3>Knowing What The Market Needs</h3>He continues: "Our role model is <a href="https://www.imec-int.com/en/about-us" target="_blank">imec</a>, the R&amp;D hub for nano and digital technologies for semiconductor electronics industry. With them you really see how much value there is of having a large center for research and development in the chain. And that such an overarching center can perfectly well co-exist alongside the established institutes, start-ups, companies, large industries and universities."Fortunately our work is not a matter of conjecture. Latkowski: "We know exactly what we need to do, what the next steps are and how we need to approach them. The bandwidth, the energy consumption, the price and the time frame.”"In this respect, we also differ from academia. We're not targeting papers or mentoring PhD students. We are purely focused on what the industry is looking for, what the next generation products and applications need and at what moment which product is wanted," he explains.This involves a very different scale than what researchers are used to. Latkowski: "Success is defined in a completely different way, and that requires a completely new way of thinking. What may be a large volume for academics and some of the businesses, say thousands of chips, is very small for industry. They measure success by seeing millions of chips a month rolling off the assembly line.”<h3>Silicon Or Indium Phosphide?</h3>"Electronic chips and multiple forms of photonic chips will be used side by side over the next five to ten years," Latkowski predicts. The center is therefore fully committed to so-called hybridization, integrating a variety of photonic chips alongside electronic ones. As every material has its own strengths.<div class="fr-img-space-wrap"><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1622716440440-csm_IMG_7878_315a510efc.jpg" style="width: 788px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Photo: Florian Lemaitre&nbsp;He refers to the various materials from which photonic chips can be constructed. A well-known material that TU/e researcher Kevin Williams and his group are working on, for example, is indium phosphide (InP), a material that can generate, modulate and amplify light itself but for which no very-large-scale infrastructure has yet been developed.Silicon based chips can more easily be integrated with the current silicon based fabrication processes used for electronics. For example, the chips based on silicon nitride (Si3N4) that the University of Twente is developing or the full silicon chips that TU/e researcher Erik Bakkers and his group are working on, and which was <a href="https://www.tue.nl/en/news/news-overview/08-04-2020-eindhoven-researchers-present-revolutionary-light-emitting-silicon/" target="_blank">recently demonstrated to be capable of emitting light</a>”.<h3>Self-Driving Car</h3>That there is a market for cost-effective integrated photonic chips is apparent when we look at self-driving cars. Photonic components are already in use for the cameras and LIDAR modules that provide full surveillance of the surrounding and allow the vehicle to accelerate and brake automatically.But one LIDAR sensor of an autonomous Google car, for example, can cost as much as 60.000 dollars. An autonomous car needs at least 6 of such sensors to be able to view the surroundings with sufficient extent of detail and not make any mistakes.Latkowski: “The car industry has calculated that the photonic components should cost a maximum of 50 dollars to be a cost-effective solution for the car market. Integrated photonics can then be a game-changer. It brings many advantages over discrete component-based photonic systems, in terms of size, stability, performance, reliability, and cost.”Full integration, in which one chip contains photonics and electronics together, is the next step. "Only then can photonics chips gradually take over as the costs of production become less and less," Latkowski concludes.<hr>This article was first published here: <a href="https://www.tue.nl/en/our-university/departments/mathematics-and-computer-science/the-department/news/news-overview/01-06-2021-netherlands-tames-the-light-in-photonic-chips/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tue.nl/en/our-university/departments/mathematics-and-computer-science/the-department/news/news-overview/01-06-2021-netherlands-tames-the-light-in-photonic-chips/</a></div></section>

integrated photonics

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