Generalized full-vector multi-mode matching analysis of whispering gallery microcavities

Area of Science:

• Photonics
• Optical Engineering
• Computational Electromagnetics

Background:

• Whispering gallery mode (WGM) microcavities are crucial for photonic integrated circuits.
• Accurate modeling of mode coupling is essential for device performance.
• Previous single-mode techniques struggle with complex multi-mode interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a full-vectorial 3D multi-mode matching technique for WGM microcavities.
• To address mutual coupling among co-propagating modes in perturbed microcavities.
• To enable accurate modeling of waveguide-to-cavity coupling with significant multi-mode effects.

Main Methods:

• Developed a 3D multi-mode matching technique within a cylindrical coordinate system.
• Implemented a full-vectorial approach to capture electromagnetic field behavior.
• Focused on modeling perturbed WGM microcavities and their interactions.

Main Results:

• The new technique offers superior accuracy compared to previous single-mode methods.
• Successfully modeled mutual coupling among multiple co-propagating modes.
• Demonstrated suitability for scenarios where multi-mode coupling is non-negligible.

Conclusions:

• The proposed technique provides a more accurate and robust approach to WGM microcavity modeling.
• It facilitates the design of advanced photonic integrated circuits.
• Enables a robust scheme for hybrid integration of microcavities onto silicon-on-insulator platforms.