Programmable multifunctional nanophotonic ICs: architectures, performance, and challenges

Programmable multifunctional integrated nanophotonics (PMIN) is a new paradigm that aims at designing common integrated optical hardware configurations, which by suitable programming can implement a variety of functionalities that can be elaborated for basic or more complex operations in many application fields. The strength of PMIN relies on the suitable interconnection of field-programmable waveguide arrays. Here, we review the recent advances reported in the field of PMIN, paying special attention to outlining the design principles, material platforms, synthesis algorithms and practical constraints of these structures. Finally, we discuss their applicability to different fields.