Design of a compact static Fourier transform spectrometer in integrated optics based on a leaky loop structure

Area of Science:

• Photonics and Optical Engineering
• Integrated Optics
• Spectrometer Design

Background:

• Traditional Fourier transform spectrometers can be bulky and complex.
• Integrated optics offer miniaturization potential for optical systems.
• Developing compact, cost-effective spectrometers is crucial for various applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and model a compact static Fourier transform spectrometer for integrated optics.
• To demonstrate a novel design based on a leaky loop and plane waveguide structure.
• To achieve high interference fringe contrast and enable low-cost fabrication.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a plane leaky loop structure combined with a plane waveguide.
• Employed a two-dimensional aperiodic Fourier modal method for waveguide coupling.
• Incorporated Helmholtz-Kirchhoff propagation for modeling light guidance.
• Simulated performance for a glass integrated optics spectrometer.

Main Results:

• Achieved a large fringe pattern with high interference fringe contrast.
• Demonstrated control over the field pattern at the photodetector array.
• Simulated a spectral resolution (Delta lambda) of 6.1 nm at 1500 nm.
• Validated a concept for single, low-cost realization process step spectrometers.

Conclusions:

• The proposed compact static Fourier transform spectrometer is feasible for integrated optics.
• The design offers a pathway to miniaturized, cost-effective spectrometers.
• This approach enables high-performance spectral analysis in a compact form factor.