Compact Model of Linear Passive Integrated Photonics Device for Photon Design Automation

TL;DR

This paper introduces a fast, accurate, data-driven compact model for integrated photonic devices that significantly speeds up design simulations and can evaluate manufacturing variations efficiently.

Contribution

It presents a novel Eigenmode Propagation Method and a compact model derived from waveguide Hamiltonians for rapid photonic device simulation.

Findings

Achieves millisecond-scale simulation accuracy comparable to 3D FDTD.

Enables quick assessment of manufacturing variations and polarization effects.

Provides a flexible tool for photonic design automation.

Abstract

As integrated photonic systems grow in scale and complexity, Photonic Design Automation (PDA) tools and Process Design Kits (PDKs) have become increasingly important for layout and simulation. However, fixed PDKs often fail to meet the rising demand for customization, compelling designers to spend significant time on geometry optimization using FDTD, EME, and BPM simulations. To address this challenge, we propose a data-driven Eigenmode Propagation Method (DEPM) based on the unitary evolution of optical waveguides, along with a compact model derived from intrinsic waveguide Hamiltonians. The relevant parameters are extracted via complex coupled-mode theory. Once constructed, the compact model enables millisecond-scale simulations that achieve accuracy on par with 3D FDTD, within the model's valid scope. Moreover, this method can swiftly evaluate the effects of manufacturing variations on device and system performance, including both random phase errors and polarization-sensitive components. The data-driven EPM thus provides an efficient and flexible solution for future photonic design automation, promising further advancements in integrated photonic technologies.