Optical Micro/Nano-Scale Network: A New Challenge Toward Next Generation

This paper presents an overview of the work conducted at the OPERA National Research Center for Photonic Integration Technology on the theory, design, fabrication, and integration of micro/nano-scale optical networks (O-MNN) in the form of what we call "optical printed circuit boards" (O-PCBs) and "VLSI photonic integrated circuits"(VLSI-PICs) of generic and application-specific functions. This is an extension of the macro-scale optical networks and electrical networks down to the level of micro/nano-scale. It also intends to compliment the limitations of the electrical PCBs, VLSI circuits (VLSI-ICs) and electrical network by way of processing optical signals through optical networks while the electrical systems process electrical signals through the electrical networks. The new optical systems consist of 2-dimensional planar arrays of optical wires, circuits, and networks of micro/nano-scale to perform the functions of sensing, storing, transporting, processing, switching, routing, and distributing optical signals on flat modular boards or chips. The paper discusses scientific and technological issues and approaches concerning the miniaturization, interconnection and integration of micro/nano-scale photonic devices, circuits, and networks. Design rules for the miniaturization and integration of the micro/nano-photonic systems are discussed. Photonic crystals and plasmonic structures and their network application are discussed. Progresses and examples are presented.