Modelling and characterization of periodically patterned optical ring resonators

Optical gyroscopes are instruments capable of measuring rotations. The creation of miniature optical gyroscopes could lead to the development of self-navigating small crafts such as drones. Microresonator-based optical gyroscopes, where light is trapped in a ring-like structure and propagates differently depending on whether it is moving clockwise or counter-clockwise, are the best candidates to create such miniaturized devices. The detection limit (the slowest rotation they can measure) of resonator-based gyroscopes depends on the losses of the resonator, quantified by a number called the Q-factor. When the losses are low, corresponding to a high Q-factor, the detection limit becomes smaller. To make these gyroscopes able to detect very slow rotations, it is important to maximize the Q-factor. One way to achieve this goal is by making a ring with a grating-like pattern. This project involves computer modelling and theoretical analysis of integrated photonic ring resonators including grating patterns with the goal of predicting where the best optical resonances are and to minimize their losses. In addition, there is an experimental component of the project which is the implementation of experimental techniques that can measure resonant modes with ultra-high Q-factors in silicon nitride ring resonators.

Faculty Supervisor:

Pablo Bianucci

Student:

Partner:

Politecnico di Bari

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Education

University:

Concordia University

Program: