Analysis of a waveguide crossing structure suitable for vertical multimodes based on planar curved reflectors

Area of Science:

• Photonics and Optical Engineering
• Integrated Optics
• Waveguide Technology

Background:

• On-chip multimode transmission is crucial for expanding data capacity in optical communication systems.
• Efficient waveguide crossings are essential components for developing complex integrated photonic circuits.
• Existing waveguide crossing designs often face limitations in handling multiple guided modes simultaneously.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and simulate a novel waveguide crossing structure capable of handling more than two guided modes.
• To achieve high efficiency and low crosstalk for multimode transmission in integrated photonic devices.
• To provide a robust building block for advanced multiplexing systems on a single chip.

Main Methods:

• Design of a waveguide crossing utilizing an elliptical reflector.
• Electromagnetic simulation of the waveguide crossing structure.
• Analysis of optical performance, including insertion loss and crosstalk, for multiple transverse electric (TE) modes.

Main Results:

• The simulated waveguide crossing demonstrates high efficiency for all three TE modes, with insertion losses below 0.4 dB.
• Achieved crosstalk levels are approximately -40 dB across a broad spectral range.
• The elliptical reflector design proves effective for crossing multiple guided modes.

Conclusions:

• The proposed elliptical reflector waveguide crossing is a promising solution for efficient multimode transmission.
• This design enables enhanced link capacity on a single wavelength carrier for integrated photonic circuits.
• The structure offers a viable building block for future complex optical multiplexing systems.