Nanophotonic metamaterials as anti-counterfeit devices in Australian banknotes. This project will demonstrate the application of novel materials as the basis for next generation security features on banknotes. Such elements play a key role in maintaining the integrity of Australia's currency since they present a significant barrier to counterfeiting.
A versatile optical wavelength and mode switching device for future telecommunication networks. This project will develop a next generation switching device for future fibre optical communication networks that will divide their information among several modes of specialty fibre. This device will be a key component for allowing network operators to move to these novel mode-multiplexed networks in order to overcome the looming capacity crunch.
Mechanical stresses in holey fibres. The development of holey fibres constitutes arguably the most exciting development in fibre optics in recent years. We will analyze the mechanical stresses in these fibres, which, together with the optical calculations and associated experiments, will allow us to design novel fibre-based devices. This will allow Nufern to develop new products based on holey fibres.
Next generation lasers for short-reach optical fibre communication. This project aims to develop next-generation laser systems for multimode fibre-optic communication systems, by leveraging recently developed techniques for measuring and controlling the spatial properties of light. These techniques will provide new insights into the physics of the lasers themselves, as well as overcoming fundamental limitations which have traditionally hindered their operation at high speed. The expected outcome ....Next generation lasers for short-reach optical fibre communication. This project aims to develop next-generation laser systems for multimode fibre-optic communication systems, by leveraging recently developed techniques for measuring and controlling the spatial properties of light. These techniques will provide new insights into the physics of the lasers themselves, as well as overcoming fundamental limitations which have traditionally hindered their operation at high speed. The expected outcome of this project is the inclusion of these techniques in the development and operation of future generations of fibre communication systems. Creating new classes of laser systems, which can scale to large bit rates, will enable the growth in this area to be sustained into the future.Read moreRead less
Multipoint voltage sensor for high power distribution lines. This project will develop a new electric field sensor array for electricity transmission systems. The project proposes novel sensor designs based on hybrid technology; fibre optics and liquid crystals. Investment in student and researcher training will provide the industry, still in its early growth phase, with future human resources and strengthen research and development programs. The outcomes of this project will benefit our Austr ....Multipoint voltage sensor for high power distribution lines. This project will develop a new electric field sensor array for electricity transmission systems. The project proposes novel sensor designs based on hybrid technology; fibre optics and liquid crystals. Investment in student and researcher training will provide the industry, still in its early growth phase, with future human resources and strengthen research and development programs. The outcomes of this project will benefit our Australian-based Partner Organisation, Smart Digital Optics PTY LTD and will also increase Australian research expertise in the field of photonics materials.Read moreRead less
Meta-optics systems for driver-fatigue monitoring. The project aims to develop novel miniaturised optical systems for driver fatigue monitoring, which provide increased sensitivity, eliminate reflections from eyeglasses and enable accurate depth measurements of facial features. The unique performance of our optical systems is derived from the concept of optical nanostructured surfaces to allow for efficient control of light wavefront and polarisation. The project aims to apply this concept to de ....Meta-optics systems for driver-fatigue monitoring. The project aims to develop novel miniaturised optical systems for driver fatigue monitoring, which provide increased sensitivity, eliminate reflections from eyeglasses and enable accurate depth measurements of facial features. The unique performance of our optical systems is derived from the concept of optical nanostructured surfaces to allow for efficient control of light wavefront and polarisation. The project aims to apply this concept to develop six different optical elements with new functionalities and performance well beyond what is possible with conventional components. This development will enable the construction of high-performance driver monitoring systems, thus facilitating a safer driving experience for all.Read moreRead less
Compact and versatile chip lasers for three-dimensional mine surveying. This project will bring together a world leading mine survey company, The University of Adelaide and Macquarie University researchers, to develop an 'eye-safe' micro laser for high resolution three-dimensional laser-mapping. The recently developed and patented 'chip' laser will allow the realisation of a compact, enhanced range laser-radar with unmatched resolution.
Integration of broadband microwave photonic frequency convertors. This project aims to develop microwave photonic processors with increased bandwidth and unprecedented radio frequency signal processing. The new technology will enhance radar systems and electronic-warfare capabilities, and allow more flexible delivery of bandwidth for mobile communication systems. Benefits for Australian end-users and industry include improved surveillance for defence and revenue growth in companies working with ....Integration of broadband microwave photonic frequency convertors. This project aims to develop microwave photonic processors with increased bandwidth and unprecedented radio frequency signal processing. The new technology will enhance radar systems and electronic-warfare capabilities, and allow more flexible delivery of bandwidth for mobile communication systems. Benefits for Australian end-users and industry include improved surveillance for defence and revenue growth in companies working with the Australian defence forces.Read moreRead less
Microstructured polymer interconnects for photonic devices. Efficient interconnection of photonic components is the most critical research problem facing the photonics industry in its efforts for integration. In this project, interconnects for photonic systems will be developed, utilising a recently developed new class of fibres - microstructured optical fibres, which have been called 'the next generation' of optical fibres because of their ability to produce a variety of tailorisable optical ef ....Microstructured polymer interconnects for photonic devices. Efficient interconnection of photonic components is the most critical research problem facing the photonics industry in its efforts for integration. In this project, interconnects for photonic systems will be developed, utilising a recently developed new class of fibres - microstructured optical fibres, which have been called 'the next generation' of optical fibres because of their ability to produce a variety of tailorisable optical effects. Specially designed and modified microstructured fibres will be developed to achieve efficient coupling from fibre to planar waveguide circuits, and to a range of photonic band gap devices that are currently being developed by the industry partner.Read moreRead less
In vivo molecular imaging using engineered affinity reagents and fluorescent laser scanning confocal endomicroscopy. The goal of this project is to develop laser scanning confocal endomicroscopy as a tool for basic scientific discovery and rapid detection of disease biomarkers. The cutting-edge instrument and associated technologies will provide scientists with unprecedented access to dynamic biological processes as they occur in real-time. In addition, it will enable the development of virtual ....In vivo molecular imaging using engineered affinity reagents and fluorescent laser scanning confocal endomicroscopy. The goal of this project is to develop laser scanning confocal endomicroscopy as a tool for basic scientific discovery and rapid detection of disease biomarkers. The cutting-edge instrument and associated technologies will provide scientists with unprecedented access to dynamic biological processes as they occur in real-time. In addition, it will enable the development of virtual biopsies and instant diagnosis without the need for costly and time-consuming histopathological reports. Thus, it will not only drive transformative research but also transform health care delivery. It will also be a major boost to the Australian biotechnology industry with potential for enormous economic benefits.Read moreRead less