Arbitrary ratio power splitter based on shape optimization for dual-band operation

Abstract

Arbitrary ratio power splitters (ARPSs) are essential components in integrated photonics. However, most existing ARPSs are limited to operating within a single wavelength band. To address this limitation, in this paper, we propose a 1 × 2 ARPS capable of operating in multi-wavelength bands using the shape optimization method. Harnessing a compact footprint of 14 μm × 1.7 μm, a series of dual-band ARPSs (DBARPSs) with varying power splitting ratios (PSRs) are designed. Within the wavelength ranges of 1280–1340 nm and 1520–1580 nm, all of the DBARPSs have an excess loss of less than 0.55 dB, with PSR deviations falling within the range of −0.5 dB to 1 dB. The practical viability is confirmed through a fabricated DBARPS with a 3 dB PSR. Experimental results show that the PSR deviation is within −0.8 dB to 1 dB, while the excess loss remains below 0.54 dB within the bandwidths of 1280–1340 nm and 1520–1580 nm. Additionally, the same design methodology is extended to develop a high-performance 1310/1550 nm wavelength demultiplexer. The resulting device showcases remarkable performance, with insertion loss below 0.7 dB and extinction ratios higher than 17 dB across the specified wavelength ranges. Experimental outcomes align closely with the design objectives, underscoring the dual-band operational capability and robust generality of the approach outlined in this paper.