Mass-Production-Suitable Single-Photon Source and Manufacturing Method

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention provides a scalable method for making single-photon sources, where a tiny active solid-state component—such as a quantum dot or nanodiamond—is placed on the surface or interface of an electrically driven light source (such as an LED). When electrically activated, the light source emits photons that excite the active component, prompting it to emit exactly one photon with a lower emission energy during a predefined time interval. The structure and process enable precise placement of single-photon emitters and allow for reliable, mass production of these devices.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Quantum key distribution for secure communications (quantum cryptography)
• Single-photon generation for advanced optical and quantum computing
• Precision spectroscopy applications requiring controlled photon emission
• Integration into photonic circuits for quantum information processing
• Single-photon microscopy and imaging techniques
• Development of scalable quantum networks

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Enables mass production of single-photon sources, crucial for commercial and industrial use
• Miniaturization due to integration with standard electrically driven light sources (e.g., LEDs)
• Precise and reliable emission of one photon at a time, which is vital for applications like quantum cryptography
• Simplifies handling and integration by leveraging established semiconductor manufacturing processes
• Reduces system complexity by eliminating the need for separate optical excitation components
• Allows for spatially selective placement and operation of single-photon sources, improving device performance and scalability

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to an individual photon source comprising at least one active solid body which, when excited by means of light, the photons of which each have a excitation energy, emits a single photon having a lower emission energy within a predefined time interval. According to the invention, the active solid body is arranged on a surface or interface of an electrically operated light source for photons having the excitation energy, such that said body can be excited through this surface or interface. It has been recognized that, in this way, the ability to miniaturize and readily handle electrical primary light sources can be advantageously combined with the capability of the active solid body to emit precisely one photon. Because the active solid body emits only a single photon within a predefined time interval, it is no longer a disadvantage if the light source used for the excitation emits many photons per unit time. This opens up a way to produce individual photon sources in large quantities, inter-alia by the method according to the invention.