Integrated Quantum Sensor Structure With Lateral Waveguide Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional quantum sensors are large in size and their constituent elements are not scalable, limiting their deployment in various applications, particularly in biomedical applications.
Innovation Solution
A photonic device structure comprising a first and second waveguide core laterally coupled to a sensor layer with defect centers capable of photoluminescence, integrated with a photodetector, allowing for high-sensitivity detection of physical quantities like magnetic fields.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional quantum sensor structures are used, then high sensitivity detection is achieved, but the device size becomes large and scalability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from conventional three-dimensional bulk sensor structures to a two-dimensional photonic integrated circuit platform. The sensor layer with defect centers is integrated laterally between waveguide cores in a planar configuration, enabling compact scaling while maintaining quantum sensing capabilities through optical waveguide coupling rather than traditional volumetric structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functional elements into a single integrated photonic device: waveguide cores for light transport, a sensor layer with defect centers for quantum sensing, and photodetectors for signal readout are merged into one compact structure. This integration eliminates the need for separate bulky components while maintaining high sensitivity detection through efficient optical coupling between the merged elements.
2Measurement precision
If conventional quantum sensor structures are used, then high sensitivity detection is achieved, but device complexity and difficulty of scaling increase
Solution Approach 1:
The photonic integrated circuit structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: waveguide cores transport optical signals, the sensor layer with defect centers performs quantum sensing, and photodetectors readout the signals. This multi-functional integration reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall system architecture while maintaining high sensitivity detection capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical or electrical sensor structures with an optical-based photonic system. Light propagation through waveguides and interaction with defect centers in the sensor layer enables sensing without complex mechanical moving parts or electrical connections, thereby reducing structural complexity and improving scalability to multiple channels.
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 structure enables compact, scalable quantum sensors capable of sensitive detection, facilitating their deployment in diverse applications including biomedical uses.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor layer comprises a material including a plurality of defect centers capable of photoluminescence
Data Source
AI summary
Structures for a quantum sensor and methods of forming such structures. The structure comprises a first waveguide core, a second waveguide core, and a sensor layer laterally between the first waveguide core and the second waveguide core. The first waveguide core is laterally coupled to the sensor layer, the second waveguide core is laterally coupled to the sensor layer, and the sensor layer comprises a material including a plurality of defect centers capable of photoluminescence.