Frequency-Comb Single-Photon Emission for Predictable Output Frequency
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current single-photon sources are probabilistic and unreliable for generating single photons on-demand in a pre-selected frequency due to non-linear processes, leading to unpredictable timing and low-excitation probability.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a frequency comb generator and mode selector to produce a single photon of a pre-selected frequency by selecting a suitable comb spectral mode based on a heralding signal, allowing for on-demand generation of photons with high fidelity and reduced unpredictability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If non-linear processes such as spontaneous parametric down conversion or spontaneous four-wave mixing are used to generate single photons, then high single-photon fidelity can be achieved, but the probability of producing photons becomes unpredictable and timing is highly unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-generating a frequency comb spectrum with multiple equidistant spectral modes before the heralding event occurs. When a photon pair is generated via spontaneous four-wave mixing, the detection of the first photon (heralding signal) immediately identifies a available comb mode for the second photon, eliminating timing unpredictability. The frequency comb structure is prepared in advance to cover a broad spectral range, ensuring that regardless of when photon pairs are generated, a suitable mode is always available for on-demand single-photon extraction.
2Reliability
If non-linear processes are operated in the regime of low-excitation probability to achieve high single-photon fidelity, then multiphoton components can be made arbitrarily small, but the time at which a single heralded photon will be produced becomes highly unpredictable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by using the heralding signal from the first photon detection to actively control the selection of the frequency comb mode for the second photon. The system continuously monitors for heralding events and immediately responds by routing the corresponding second photon through the appropriate frequency-selective element (such as an acousto-optic modulator or electro-optic modulator) to extract a single photon at a predetermined frequency. This closed-loop feedback mechanism transforms the inherently probabilistic process into a reliable on-demand source while maintaining high single-photon fidelity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a broad spectrum of frequencies is covered to accommodate varying photon frequencies, then suitable comb spectral modes can be selected for each second photon, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single frequency comb generator that produces a comb spectrum covering a broad frequency range, which can serve multiple purposes: accommodating photon pairs generated at different frequencies, providing multiple selectable modes for different experimental requirements, and enabling flexible routing to different output channels. The frequency comb structure itself acts as a universal resource that adapts to various heralding frequency outcomes without requiring separate generation systems for each frequency, thereby managing complexity while maintaining versatility.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system enables reliable generation of single photons in a pre-selected frequency, improving the reliability and predictability of single-photon production, making it suitable for applications requiring high photon fidelity and on-demand generation.
Implementation Method 1
The non-linear photonic element is configured to receive the heralded second photon and the selected comb spectral mode and produce an output photon having the pre-selected frequency based on the frequency of the heralded second photon and the selected comb spectral mode
Implementation Method 2
The frequency comb generator may be for generating a Kerr frequency comb
Data Source
AI summary
A system is disclosed for producing an output photon having a predefined frequency. The system comprises a frequency comb generator for generating a frequency comb. The system further comprises a frequency comb mode selector configured to: receive a heralding signal representative of the detection of a first photon of a frequency-correlated photon pair, the heralding signal indicative of a frequency of the heralded second photon of the frequency-correlated photon pair; and select, based on the received heralding signal, a comb spectral mode of the frequency comb. The system further comprises a non-linear photonic element configured to receive the heralded second photon and the selected comb spectral mode and produce an output photon having the predefined frequency based on the frequency of the heralded second photon and the selected comb spectral mode. Methods, controllers and computer-readable media are also described herein.