Grant: Strategic Projects - Group

Over the last decades, data traffic over optical networks has seen an exponential increase. The development of internet has been a major contributor, and future usages such as ultra HD TV, cloud computing, data based services, fiber to the home (FTTH), etc., are putting more pressure on data demand. As a result, new solutions are now required to support companies like AEPONYX that work with the high volume of data, while avoiding a simultaneous scaling of cost. At the same time, higher flexibility is also desired to increase the efficiency of optical networks. These needs can be answered by reducing the size and increasing the performances of photonic components at the core of networks, such as multiplexers and tunable lasers by integrating with microsystems technologies. These would allow to generate-on-demand, mix, separate or route optical signals of different wavelengths to maximize data transfer in communication networks. Hence, this grant proposes a high-risk-high-value concept of microsystem integrated planar waveguide based tunable lasers by integrating a mono-order and relatively lossless diffraction grating with MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical System) based micromechanical tuning mechanism with comb actuators. This will require research on microphotonics and micromechanical designs, microfabrication and micromachining, and testing. By being able to handle more wavelengths with a smaller foot print, more data can be transmitted with tunable laser that are more efficient, more agile, more reliable, and cheaper to manufacture at production level. These characteristics are key to success for optical networks equipment manufacturers in providing them with cutting-edge advantage in the international market. Therefore it will greatly impact on companies in Canada such as AEPONYX, Nortel and JDSU so that they will be able to produce cheaper components and leverage existing networks by increasing their data traffic and efficiency. The success of these companies will benefit Canada in terms economic growth job creation, venture development. The project will also train many researchers and students to gain expertise in the specialized areas of microsystems, microphotonics and integration of MEMS and microphotonics.