Method and apparatus for thermo-optic modulation of optical signals

A method for applying thermo-optic control to an input optical signal comprising:

• splitting the input optical signal into a first signal and a second signal;
• propagating the first signal through a first waveguide;
• propagating the second signal through a second waveguide spaced apart relative to the first waveguide;
• and
• combining the first and second signals into a single output signal;
• wherein at least one of the first or second waveguide comprises a photonic crystal comprising:
• a layer where at least one of the first or second signal is guided or confined;
• and
• at least one electrical contact directly coupled laterally to the layer.

A method for applying thermo-optic control to a photonic crystal comprising:

• providing a layer where light is guided or confined;
• providing at least one electrical contact directly coupled laterally to said layer;
• and
• tuning an optical property of said photonic crystal, wherein said tuning is accomplished by applying a voltage to said at least one lateral electrical contact to resistively heat said layer.