Advancing Optical Computing: Direct Light Storage Solution
Yu Ge discusses recent advancements in using light for next-generation computing, highlighting the challenge of storage in fully optical systems. Traditional storage methods rely on light-to-electricity conversion, which limits speed. A new research tackles this problem by enabling direct light storage.
Utah University's Optical Component for Data Storage
A research team at the University of Utah has developed a novel optical component capable of controlling the rotation direction of light. This control is then utilized as a method for data storage, offering a potential solution for building faster optical computers. This technology has the potential to be a key component in future optical computing systems.
The Need for Optical Components
Current optical communication excels at high-speed information transmission, but the computing aspect relies on electronic signals. Pure optical computing requires the development of new optical components capable of manipulating light directly.
The Innovative Light Element
The engineering team at the University of Utah has created a fundamental optical element that allows for flexible control of light. The core of this element is a multi-layered structure constructed from ultra-thin materials. Scientists refer to it as a geological structure composed of carbon-amide tubes oriented in different directions, combined with a fusion material.
Functionality and Reversibility
This material changes its internal structure when heated by a current pulse, transitioning from a continuous state to a continuous crystal. This structural shift alters the way it interacts with light, changing its rotation direction (left or right) and absorption intensity. Essentially, the device manipulates light rotation at the micro-level, using the direction as a switch to store information. This change is reversible, enabling data to be written and erased like conventional memory.
Integrated Transparent Battery
Importantly, the nanometer-scale component not only controls light rotation but also functions as a transparent battery. This eliminates the need for separate control components, simplifying system design.
Optimization and Scalability
The research team used artificial intelligence to optimize the component's structure. This ensures consistent performance and scalability potential.
Benefits of the New Component
The key advantage of this new component is its ability to transmit independent information channels through the direction of light rotation, without interference from light intensity or color. This development paves the way for significant advancements in optical computing technologies.