Chong Zhang

Title: Innovations of Chong Zhang in Photonic Technology

Introduction

Chong Zhang is a prominent inventor based in Santa Barbara, California, known for his significant contributions to the field of photonics. With a total of 11 patents to his name, Zhang has been at the forefront of developing advanced technologies that enhance thermal performance and mode control in photonic devices.

Latest Patents

One of Zhang's latest patents is titled "Heterogeneously integrated photonic platform with improved thermal performance." This innovative device includes a first element with a passive waveguide structure that supports a first optical mode, a second element that provides heat spreading functionality, and a third element that is thermally coupled to the second element, featuring an active waveguide structure that supports a second optical mode. Additionally, a fourth element is at least partly butt-coupled to the third element, possessing an intermediate waveguide structure that supports intermediate optical modes. The design incorporates a tapered waveguide structure to facilitate efficient adiabatic transformation between the first optical mode and one of the intermediate optical modes, while ensuring no adiabatic transformation occurs between any of the intermediate optical modes and the second optical mode. The mutual alignments of the elements are defined using lithographic alignment marks, which enable precise alignment during the fabrication process.

Another notable patent by Zhang is "Mode control in heterogeneously integrated photonics." This device comprises first, second, and third elements fabricated on a common substrate. The first element supports a first optical mode in an active waveguide structure characterized by a mesa, while the second element supports a second optical mode in a passive waveguide structure. The third element, which is at least partly butt-coupled to the first element, supports an intermediate optical mode in an intermediate waveguide structure characterized by a waveguide core cross-section that includes a shallow step. A tapered waveguide structure in at least one of the second and third elements facilitates efficient adiabatic transformation between the second optical mode and the intermediate optical mode, ensuring that no adiabatic transformation occurs between the intermediate optical mode and the first optical mode. Lithographic alignment marks are also utilized to ensure precise alignment of the three elements during device fabrication.

Career Highlights

Chong Zhang has worked with several notable companies throughout his career, including Nexus Photonics and Hewlett Packard Enterprise Development. His work in these organizations has contributed to the advancement of photonic technologies and their applications in various industries