Quantum Dot Simulations
Include Multiple Quantum Dot Layers in Laser Simulations
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The Nobel Prize winning topic of Quantum Dots has arrived in software Harold. The quantum dot model includes a 3D band structure calculator solving the energy levels for dots of arbitrary grading including a 3D strain model. These results are directly integrated with industry tested simulations for carrier drift defusion, thermal and optical modelling to produce gain spectra results.
Test your dot designs are delivering the high-temperature performance that quantum-dot materials are promising the World.
Key Features
8 Band 3D k.p Model
Identify the available energy states in the conduction and valence band with our spurious free 8-band model for an individual quantum dot.
The band gap energy is perturbed by the coupling to the light hole, heavy hole, and spin orbital bands. By simulating these further bands, our 8-band K.P model will more accurately describe the band gap and the gain spectra results.
Full 3D Strain Model
The strain due to lattice mismatch between materials can have a significant effect on a quantum dot’s energy levels. Our continuous mechanical strain model rises to the challenge of calculating the full 3D strain tensor necessary for describe a 3D quantum dot’s geometry (apposed to the 1D stain from a quantum well). This allows for a detailed description of confining potential and a more accurate description of the system.
Dot Distribution
When fabricated, quantum dots don’t have the intended singular size but a distribution of sizes to detrimental effect to properties such as linewidth. To account for this, Harold will simulate a distribution of dot sizes (uniform, Gaussian, even bimodal Gaussian) and combine the results in its final output.
This gives a more accurate reflection of the results that can be expected at fabrication.
As well as size, a dot distribution
3D Dynamic Simulations
Gain spectra and other key results can be exported directly to established circuit simulator PICWave for 3D laser simulations and inclusion into larger circuits. Examples include:
Designing DFB lasers, finding threshold current and linewidth in spectral response.
Combining laser sources with PIC components like ring resonators to create comb lasers
Testing modulation speeds with eye diagrams
Developed with Leading Research Groups
The Harold Quantum Dot Model has been developed in collaboration with Cardiff University - one of the UK’s leading centers for compound semiconductor photonics research. In the figures shown we demonstrate the excellent agreement between the results of the model and experimental data measured by Cardiff. The devices were fabricated by the University College of London.
High Temperature Absorbtion
Modal Gain Spectra
The simulation results and experimental data show excellent agreement at this stage. These simulations have had their dot size and distribution calibrated to the experimental data, giving insight to the size and consistency of the fabrated dots.