Symmetric two dimensional photonic crystal coupled waveguide with point defect for optical switch application

TL;DR

This paper presents a simulation study of a symmetric 2D photonic crystal with a defect in one waveguide channel, demonstrating optical switching capabilities by altering the defect's refractive index, with potential for cascading switches.

Contribution

The study introduces a novel symmetric 2D photonic crystal design with a defect for optical switching, expanding the application possibilities of photonic crystals in integrated photonics.

Findings

Optical switching achieved by modifying defect refractive index

Symmetric waveguide channels enable controlled light propagation

Potential for cascade optical switch applications

Abstract

Two dimensional (2D) photonic crystals are well known for its ability to manipulate the propagation of electromagnetic wave inside the crystal. 1D and 2D photonic crystals are relatively easier to fabricate than 3D because the former work in the microwave and far infrared regions whereas the later work in the visible region and requires smaller lattice constants. In this paper, simulation for a modified 2D PC with two symmetric waveguide channels where a defect is located inside one of the channel is performed. The simulation results show that optical switching is possible by modifying the refractive index of the defect. If more than one structure is applied this feature can potentially be applied to produce a cascade optical switch.