Open AccessA study of high-index-contrast 90 degree waveguide bend structures
Author(s) -
Richard L. Espinola,
Rauf Ahmad,
F. Pizzuto,
M. J. Steel,
Richard M. Osgood
Publication year - 2001
Publication title -
optics express
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.394
H-Index - 271
ISSN - 1094-4087
DOI - 10.1364/oe.8.000517
Subject(s) - optics , finite difference time domain method , retarder , materials science , refractive index , contrast (vision) , waveguide , transmission (telecommunications) , transmission coefficient , fabrication , contrast ratio , physics , computer science , telecommunications , medicine , alternative medicine , pathology , composite material
We present an evaluation of the parameters involved in designing low-loss right-angle waveguide bends based on a high index contrast materials system. We apply the finite difference time domain method (FDTD) to several two-dimensional bend structures and study the effects of varying the bend geometry. Such a study is relevant for the understanding of bend mechanisms and for the optimization and fabrication of high-density high-contrast integrated optical components. The study indicates that high bend transmission can be achieved with the addition of a low- Q resonant cavity; however, similar or even better performance can be achieved with a structure that combines a corner mirror with a phase retarder. The use of a double corner mirror structure is shown to further increase the bend transmission, with little increase in bend area.