Photonic Circuitry for Integrated Sensing Applications

"There is an acute need for the development of high quality, robust, photonic circuitry to serve as an integrating medium for optical networks and to perform basic, on-chip functions such as signal conditioning and signal processing. What is needed arephotonic circuits that are small, functional, can be manufactured easily and in great volume, yet not have the limitations inherent in present technology. Luna Innovations proposes to begin filling this void through the development of a practical, robust,nano-scale tunable filter, implemented on a single chip for integrated sensing systems and applications that is compatible with large-scale production. In addition to the potential benefits from its nano-scale size, Luna's novel approach will finallypermit the monolithic integration of microelectronic and photonic circuits and will serve as an enabling technology for future ultra-dense photonic circuit networks. In Phase I, Luna Innovations, along with its partner, will produce an integratednano-scale tunable filter for determination of concept feasibility, while considering the integration of multiple devices onto a single chip to demonstrate dense integration densities. Furthermore, a nanoimprinting process to support large-scale productionof these devices will be developed. This innovative concept, once proven, will pave the way for Luna Innovations to develop a whole family of photonic circuitry with the potential for revolutionizing the optical computing endeavor and the integratedsensing industries. Some of the anticipated benefits are smaller physical dimensions, ultra-dense integrated packaging, and reduced manufacturing costs through easily automated, high volume production. The device proposed herein will serve as a vitalcomponent in tomorrow's dense integrated sensing networks and the novelty of Luna's approach, representing not an incremental increase over present technology but a true quantum leap, will help drive the industry."