Optomechanically induced non-reciprocity in microring resonators

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel on-chip optical non-reciprocity method using optomechanical interactions in microring resonators, enabling non-reciprocal devices like isolators and phase shifters with potential single-photon operation.

Contribution

It presents a new approach leveraging optomechanical coupling in microring resonators to achieve non-reciprocal optical responses on-chip.

Findings

System can function as an optical isolator or phase shifter

Non-reciprocal response achieved via directional optical pumping

Single-photon level operation is feasible with current technology

Abstract

We describe a new approach for on-chip optical non-reciprocity which makes use of strong optomechanical interaction in microring resonators. By optically pumping the ring resonator in one direction, the optomechanical coupling is only enhanced in that direction, and consequently, the system exhibits a non-reciprocal response. For different configurations, this system can function either as an optical isolator or a coherent non-reciprocal phase shifter. We show that the operation of such a device on the level of single-photon could be achieved with existing technology.