Automatic optical probe station for next-generation photonic die experimental validation

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The recent miniaturization of optical functions leads to more enhanced system-on-chips with hundreds of operations (e.g., modulation, signal processing, detection). Such photonic integrated circuits interface with off-chip electrical and optical signals. More diversified and yet non-standardized than conventional integrated circuits technology (i.e., complementary metal oxide semiconductor, CMOS), photonic integrated circuits do not follow an agreed upon packaging rule. This situation is due to a rapidly evolving and very active development throughout the world both in academia and industry. Challenged by the size difference between the integrated photonic waveguide and the cylindrical optical fiber, the photonic chip requires precise and active alignment to the optical fiber. The proposal is for the purchase of an optical probe station that automates the alignment between the photonic chip and the optical fibers. Currently done manually, this task not only takes several days to achieve, it lacks the reliability and robustness necessary to validate fundamental research. Furthermore, the current manual alignment occasionally leads to probe damage causing delays and additional cost. Sometimes, the damage to the die is permanent such that the experimental validation cannot be completed further imposing significant delay in the student training. Beyond those current delays, recent emerging fields such as inverse design exploiting deep learning algorithms cannot be experimentally validated without the requested equipment as it involves the measurement of hundreds of devices. Ultrafast speed optical processing requires robust coupling, currently not possible with manual alignment. Finally, the emerging research field of quantum optics requires ultra-low-loss optical coupling, only possible with an automatic alignment that scans for the optimum position of the fiber. The applicants have large research teams of graduate students currently training a total of 46 individuals which include 17 PhD students, 15 MSc students, and three postdoctoral students. These students are funded through several NSERC programs (e.g., Discovery, Alliance) and other funding agencies (e.g., NRC, FRQNT), and through close collaboration with Canadian companies. Funded research projects involve the design and validation of photonic integrated circuits. As such, the acquisition of the automatic probe station will ensure the training of HQPs without further delays, with the knowledge and skills required by the Canadian highly skilled workforce in photonics. The equipment will also enable new collaborations with the industry. Finally, an automated optical probe station opens the door to new research activities with anticipated outcomes in the research field of quantum optics, optical computing, ultrafast optical photonics, and photonic integrated circuit design methodologies with research outcomes benefiting the Canadian industry.