The integration scheme is based on use of asymmetric twin optical waveguides.
Army Research Laboratory, Adelphi, Maryland
A program of research and development has been directed toward the goals of demonstrating (1) ultra-low-noise communication links in which information is conveyed by phase-modulated radio-frequency (RF) carrier signals that are, in turn, used to modulate laser-generated optical carrier signals and (2) implementation of transmitters and receivers in such links by means of several key integrated optoelectronic and photonic components. Notably, the scheme for integrating these components is based on the use of asymmetric twin optical waveguides (see figure) that afford design versatility in that they enable the use of a broad range of components useful in RF/photonic applications.
The achievements of the program include the following:
The integration scheme was demonstrated by designing, constructing, and testing several archetypical asymmetric - twin - waveguide - based photonic integrated devices and associated electronic circuits, including not only waveguides but also laser/waveguide and photodetector/ waveguide units.
In This Example of Integration based on an asymmetric tapered optical waveguide, a laser (active waveguide) is integrated with a tapered coupler and a passive waveguide. A fully integrated heterodyne receiver capable of receiving a 1.55-μmwavelength carrier signal modulated by an RF signal of 5 GHz was designed, constructed, and tested. A wide - band - rectifier/narrow - bandreceiver design was chosen to provide cancellation of phase noise. Advantages of using an integrated balanced photodiode pair and external modulation to reduce relative-intensity noise and link nonlinearity were experimentally demonstrated.
The use of a tunable 1.55-μm-wavelength laser as a local oscillator integrated in an asymmetric-twin-waveguide- based unit was demonstrated.
The highest-bandwidth heterodyne RF/optical links operating at 5 GHz and 16 GHz were demonstrated. These links were based on phase modulation and represent an extremely-high-sensitivity route to optical transmission of analog signals.
This work was done by Stephen R. Forrest of Princeton University for the Army Research Laboratory. For further information, download the free white paper at www.defensetechbriefs.com under the Photonics category. ARL-0005
The document is a final report authored by Stephen R. Forrest from Princeton University, detailing a research program focused on the development of Very Low Noise, High Dynamic Range Heterodyne RF Lightwave Links using a novel photonic integration technology. The research was conducted under the sponsorship of the U.S. Army Research Office from July 2000 to July 2005.
The primary objective of the program was to demonstrate ultra-low noise radio frequency (RF) links and to develop several key integrated optoelectronic components utilizing an innovative asymmetric twin waveguide technology. The report outlines that all objectives set forth in the initial proposal were either met or exceeded, showcasing significant advancements in the field of RF photonics.
Key achievements highlighted in the report include the demonstration of a versatile integration technology based on the asymmetric twin waveguide platform. This technology enabled the realization of a wide range of components that are useful in RF photonic applications. Notably, the report mentions the successful demonstration of a fully integrated heterodyne receiver operating at frequencies up to 5 GHz, as well as the development of balanced photodiode/semiconductor optical amplifier pairs and a wavelength-tunable laser used as a local oscillator on the asymmetric twin waveguide platform.
Furthermore, the report emphasizes the achievement of the highest bandwidth heterodyne links operating at 5 GHz and 16 GHz, which were based on phase modulation techniques. These links represent a highly sensitive approach to analog optical transmission, showcasing the potential for high-performance communication systems.
The document also discusses the paths to commercialization, indicating a close partnership with Apogee Photonics, Inc., a startup formed from the research group. The goal of this partnership is to fabricate low-cost photonic integrated circuits based on the twin waveguide technology developed during the research.
Overall, the report provides a comprehensive overview of the advancements made in photonic integration technology, emphasizing its potential applications in RF photonics and the future of communication systems. The findings and technologies developed during this research could pave the way for more efficient and high-performance optical communication solutions.
AUSA 2025: The Army's New Anti-Vehicle Terrain Shaping Munition is Ready for...
Meet Arc: Inversion's New Autonomous Space Vehicle for Logistics and Hypersonic...
Mercury Signs Embedded Production Agreement for AeroVironment’s Satellite...
AUSA 2025: Secretary Driscoll Wants Army to Save Time and Money by 3D-Printing...
Helsing Unveils New Autonomous Fighter Jet 'CA-1 Europa'
Autonomous Targeting Systems for a New Autonomous Ground Vehicle
Engine Design for the Next 20 Years
Smarter Machining from Design to Production: Integrated CAM...
Software-Defined Vehicle Summit 2025
Leveraging Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality to Optimize...
Vibroacoustic and Shock Analysis for Aerospace and Defense...
Vehicle Test with R-444A: Better-Performing R-1234yf Direct...