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HyperPIC
Sensing the future

HyperPIC is the idea of combining mid-IR light sources, waveguiding elements, and detectors into a groundbreaking product - a fully functional photonic integrated circuit operating in mid-IR spectral range.

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HyperPIC is a bold step toward redefining
the integrated photonics landscape.

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Environment monitoring

various types of PIC-based sensors for detecting potentially harmful molecules and substances

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Industrial gas monitoring

Sensors and imaging systems monitoring gases

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Digital health monitoring

Wearable systems for smartbends, smartwatches, smartphones equipped with PIC sensors

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Automotive

Measuring thickness of thin films, shapes and roughness of surface

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Secure free-space communications

IR communication and calibration

By bringing together cutting-edge technologies and robust infrastructure, HyperPIC aims to enable the first large-scale production of mid-IR PICs designed for advanced applications in compact sensor systems.

This initiative will culminate in the launch of Europe’s first dedicated foundry for manufacturing mid-IR photonics circuits at a high-volume scale, opening new frontiers for innovation and industrial growth.

The implementation of HyperPIC technology will allow the replacement of expensive and complex systems with photonic integrated circuits. Consequently, it will be possible to use single chips acting as micro-laboratories in everyday devices (smartphones, home appliances, cars). In addition, it will enable the deployment of distributed sensor networks and monitoring systems for industry, environment, agriculture, traffic and transportation systems, critical infrastructure, etc.

What are the advantages of PIC technology?

Key components of PIC:

- PIC-compatible mid-IR light sources
and detectors

- Mid-IR optical waveguides and passive
components

- Heterogeneous integration

- Generic packaging

 

Compared to systems built from discrete components, mid-IR PICs offer several significant advantages:

- Compact size (typically at the level of several tens of mm2)

- Energy efficiency

- High reliability

- Reduced manufacturing (mass production), packaging and maintenance costs

 

Learn more about the HyperPIC project objectives>>

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Project phases

 

1/2

RDI Phase

Scientists in lab coats work in a modern laboratory filled with advanced equipment. One scientist uses a machine, while others take notes. The room is bright and organized, with large ventilation ducts overhead.

This phase focuses on intensive R&D
activities. The goal is to define and develop scalable manufacturing technologies essential for the project's success.


Key efforts include:
- advancements in mid-IR detector
and source technologies,
- PIC waveguide circuits,
heterogeneous integration,
- optoelectronic packaging,
- mass testing techniques
- the design of foundational and
composite functional blocks.

FID Phase

A spacious, modern factory interior with high ceilings and large windows. Industrial equipment and workstations are neatly arranged across the well-lit floor. Overhead ducts and pillars support the roof, which features a central skylight.

Building on the outcomes of the RDI phase, this phase involves:
- the design and implementation of
the foundry and individual process
lines.
- the optimization of these facilities
for high-volume production,
marking the transition from
research to industrial-scale
manufacturing of mid-IR photonics
circuits.

Join our team and let’s create
the future of photonics together!

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Ryszard Piramidowicz

PIC Programme Director

PhD, DSc, MBA. Director of PIC development programme at VIGO Photonics, Poland. Associate professor and head of the Optoelectronics Division, Institute of Microelectronics and Optoelectronics (Warsaw University of Technology, WUT). Co-founder and CEO of LightHouse – the first Polish integrated photonic design house, a spin-off of WUT. Specialist in optical spectroscopy, solid-state laser technique, fiber-optic communications, and integrated photonics. Author of 400+ reviewed journal and conference publications. Leader, coordinator, or principal investigator in 30+ R&D and investment projects in the field of optoelectronics. President of Polish Committee of Optoelectronics of Association of Polish Electrical Engineers SEP, member of IEEE, Optica, and SPIE. Member of Photonics21 board of stakeholders.

Read more

Interested in a long-term partnership and the growth opportunities that come with supporting the HyperPIC project?

Don’t hesitate to contact us: info@vigophotonics.com

 

Discover with us what’s next, before it arrives!