Reasons for the rise of integrated optics

The essential problem to be solved is to obtain integrated optical paths with different functions and integration, and realize the integration and miniaturization of optical information processing systems. The wavelength of light wave is four orders of magnitude shorter than the shortest radio wave, so it has greater ability to transmit and process information. However, the traditional optical system is huge and unstable, and the beam is difficult to align and collimate, which can not meet the needs of the development of photoelectric technology. It is a way to solve the problem of the original optical system by integrating optical elements on the same substrate in the form of thin films by using methods similar to semiconductor integrated circuits. This has the advantages of small size, stable and reliable performance, high efficiency, low power consumption and convenient use. Integrated optics appears around 1969. In the process of its emergence and development, a group of scientists represented by Tian Peiguang of Bell Laboratories played an important role. It is entering the stage of engineering application from basic and development research.