Keywords

integrated optics, beam splitters, total internal reflection, waveguides, components, photonic integrated circuits

Abstract

We demonstrate compact waveguide splitter networks in siliconon-insulator (SOI) rib waveguides using trench-based splitters (TBSs) and bends (TBBs). Rather than a 90° geometry, we use 105° TBSs to facilitate reliable fabrication of high aspect ratio trenches suitable for 50/50 splitting when filled with SU8. Three dimensional (3D) finite difference time domain (FDTD) simulation is used for splitter and bend design. Measured TBB and TBS optical efficiencies are 84% and 68%, respectively. Compact 105° 1 x 4, 1 x 8, and 1 x 32 trench-based splitter networks (TBSNs) are demonstrated. The measured total optical loss of the 1 x 32 TBSN is 9.15 dB. Its size is only 700 μm x 1600 μm for an output waveguide spacing of 50 μm.

Original Publication Citation

Y. Qian, J. Song, S. Kim, W. Hu, G. P. Nordin, "Compact waveguide splitter networks," Optics Express 16(7), pp. 4981-499 (28). http://www.opticsexpress.org/abstract.cfm?id=156939.