Photonic Matrix Processor Using Optical Adders for High-Speed Computing

The patent replaces electronic computation mechanisms with optical computation mechanisms. Specifically, it uses optical encoders to convert input values into optical signals, optical multipliers to perform multiplication operations using optical interference, and optical adders to sum the products. This substitution of electronic systems with optical systems enables parallel processing of multiple matrix elements simultaneously, achieving processing speeds in excess of 15 GHz and dramatically reducing computational time for matrix multiplication operations.

The patent merges multiple optical operations into a unified optical processing architecture. The optical encoder, optical multipliers, and optical adder are integrated into a cohesive system where input values are encoded once and then simultaneously processed through multiple optical paths. This merging allows parallel computation of multiple matrix elements without requiring separate electronic-to-optical conversion for each operation, thereby improving computational efficiency while managing overall device complexity through systematic integration.

The patent operates optical components at specific parameter ranges optimized for high-speed operation. The optical encoders modulate light at frequencies exceeding 15 GHz, and the optical multipliers are designed with specific interference patterns that maintain stability across manufacturing tolerances. By carefully selecting and controlling operational parameters such as optical wavelength, modulation frequency, and interference path differences, the system achieves high clock frequencies while maintaining robustness against manufacturing variations through parameter optimization rather than requiring extreme manufacturing precision.