Matrix infrared-visible image converter based on waveguide microring resonators

We propose a novel concept of image converter from an infrared range into a visible range of electromagnetic waves by the use of waveguide resonator structures of a micron size as a sensitive element. The method is based on the modulation of the resonator proper equidistant spectrum under the influence of the external electromagnetic radiation of the infrared spectral range, which changes the optical properties of the sensitive element material. The structure and principles of operation of the matrix converter of infrared images into visible ones on the base of a matrix of the waveguide microring resonators are investigated. It is shown that sensitivity of such converter to the variation of infrared radiation power can be as low as 2.6middot10 -12 W.