Single Photon Source and Method for Production and Operation Thereof

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This patent describes a single photon source (SPS) and methods for its production and operation, based on semiconductor quantum dots with precisely controlled fine structure splitting (FSS) of the exciton energy level. By carefully choosing the size and material properties of the quantum dots, the photon emission properties—such as polarization and entanglement—can be tuned and optimized. The structure can emit one photon at a time, with desired characteristics, enabling reliable on-demand single or entangled photon generation. The design uses established semiconductor fabrication methods and includes integration of the quantum dot within a microcavity for high efficiency and directionality, making the source suitable for telecom wavelengths.

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• Quantum cryptography (secure key distribution using single or entangled photons)
• Quantum computing (photon-based quantum logic gates using on-demand indistinguishable photons)
• Quantum metrology and sensors (high-precision measurements using single photons)
• Telecommunications (using single photons for next-generation secure data transmission over optical fibers)
• Fundamental research in quantum optics and photon entanglement experiments

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• Deterministic emission of single photons or entangled photon pairs on demand, improving security and reliability in quantum applications.
• Tunability via quantum dot size allows specific tailoring of photon properties (polarization, wavelength, entanglement).
• Integration with existing semiconductor manufacturing processes enables scalable and cost-effective production.
• Optimized for telecom wavelengths (1.3 μm and 1.55 μm), ensuring compatibility with current optical fiber infrastructure.
• High efficiency and directional emission due to microcavity and Purcell effect, minimizing optical losses.
• Reduces issues with multi-photon emission and uncontrolled polarization compared to conventional sources, increasing system fidelity.
• Electrical and/or optical operation possible, fitting a wide range of applications and system integration needs.

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Patent Abstract

The invention relates, amongst other things, to a method for production of a single photon source (100) with a given operational performance. According to the invention, the given operational performance for the individual photon source (100) may be fixed by a directed setting of the fine structure gap (FSS) of the exciton energy level for at least one quantum dot (160', 520), wherein the at least one quantum dot is produced with a quantum dot size corresponding to the fine structure gap for setting.