This invention aims to advance the field of integrated photonic memory by introducing a high-density, multilayer storage approach. Utilizing phase-change materials (PCMs) as the active elements, the innovation leverages the unique near-field coupling profiles of different optical modes supported by a waveguide. Specifically, higher-order modes are used to selectively interact with multiple layers of PCMs, each serving as a bit of optical memory. It opens avenues for more complex and efficient computational tasks to be performed directly within the memory architecture. The long-term vision is to catalyze the development of entirely photonic computers that are more energy-efficient, faster, and capable of complex computations, enabling ultra-high data storage in less space. Background: By employing multi-layer phase-change materials and exploiting different optical modes, this invention aims to set a new benchmark in photonic memory density, thereby enabling more compact devices with higher storage and computational capabilities. Beyond photonics, the technology could stimulate advancements in areas like machine learning, artificial intelligence, and big data analytics, owing to its potential for rapid in-memory computations. Applications:
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