Geometrical Representation of a Polarisation Management Component on a SOI Platform

Area of Science:

• Silicon Photonics
• Integrated Optics
• Optical Communication

Background:

• Grating couplers in Silicon Photonics (SiPho) are crucial for fiber-chip coupling but are sensitive to polarization fluctuations.
• Polarization variations in optical links cause unwanted intensity changes in SiPho devices.
• Existing methods for polarization management can be complex and difficult to understand.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analytically consider and geometrically represent a polarization management component for SiPho.
• To generalize and simplify the understanding of polarization management functionalities.
• To demonstrate the component's application as a polarization compensator, controller, and integrated polarimeter.

Main Methods:

• Analytical consideration of a polarization management component.
• Geometrical representation using phasors and the Poincaré sphere.
• Specific implementation and experimental demonstration in Silicon-On-Insulator (SOI).

Main Results:

• A generalized and simplified treatment of polarization management functionalities was achieved.
• The component was successfully implemented in SOI, demonstrating its use as a polarization compensator and controller.
• Experimental validation confirmed the component's capability as an integrated polarimeter.

Conclusions:

• The developed component offers a unified approach to polarization management in Silicon Photonics.
• Its versatility as a compensator, controller, and polarimeter simplifies optical system design and enhances signal integrity.
• This work provides a valuable tool for advancing fiber-chip coupling and optical sensing in SiPho applications.