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Focal Point on Emerging Photonic and Quantum Technologies in Japan
Japanese researchers and companies investing in new photonic-crystal surface-emitting lasers (PCSELs) think halving laser-manufacturing energy consumption might be possible. But researchers must still enlarge prototype PCSELs for this to happen. Meanwhile, a Japanese government funded photonics and quantum technologies programme has also produced new PCSEL sensors for robotics, unhackable quantum communication networks and atomic-scale materials-processing AI. As this new wave of technologies matures, Japan's long-standing strength in optics, photonics and manufacturing position it ideally to lead global markets.
Japan is poised for a switch to technologies driven by quantum-scale packages of light, that manufacturers will embrace for their flexibility, security and energy efficient production.
The move from infrared to blue laser processing will improve the precision of copper component assembly, particularly for electric cars, say scientists.
High-tech spatial light modulators can manipulate laser beams with incredible precision and are revolutionizing materials processing, thanks to a collaboration between industry and academia.
The light detection and ranging sensors that allow the autonomous movement of vehicles and robots will be improved by new photonic-crystal surface-emitting lasers.
Energy-efficient laser light generated using photonic crystals could help reduce manufacturing power consumption, helping industry hit climate change goals.
Quantum cryptography needs to be carefully integrated with secure data storage systems and conventional cryptography to create truly unhackable information infrastructure.
New systems promise widespread secure quantum communication by using cost-effective detectors that monitor for telltale noise in properties of optical signals sent along standard communication fibres.
Toshiba is releasing its first commercial quantum key distribution system, capable of supporting city- and national-scale quantum-secured communication.
Optimization algorithms developed by Tokyo scientists are helping quantum computers navigate their way through the messy imperfections of the quantum world.