Sharp bend in two-dimensional optical waveguide based on gradient refractive index structure

Area of Science:

• Photonics
• Optical Engineering
• Waveguide Design

Background:

• Optical waveguides are crucial for integrated photonic circuits.
• Efficient light propagation in compact waveguide bends is a persistent challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and analyze a novel sharp bend design for two-dimensional optical waveguides.
• To demonstrate efficient light propagation and coupling in the proposed waveguide bend.

Main Methods:

• Design of a waveguide bend with super-ellipse boundaries.
• Implementation of a gradient refractive index profile in the waveguide core.
• Numerical simulations to analyze light propagation for TE0 and TM0 modes.

Main Results:

• The proposed waveguide bend exhibits efficient light propagation.
• Efficient light coupling is achieved between the bend and a straight waveguide.
• The design is effective for both TE0 and TM0 polarization modes.

Conclusions:

• The super-ellipse waveguide bend with a gradient refractive index offers an efficient solution for compact photonic components.
• This design strategy can be extended to other integrated optical devices.
• The findings contribute to the advancement of miniaturized optical systems.