Abstract

By using an exact electromagnetic model (rigorous coupled-wave theory) to analyze periodic dielectric waveguides, sharp resonance phenomena where 100% switching of light energy between waves occurs over small parameter ranges have been discovered.¹ Physically, this is due to coupling of external diffracted fields with the modes of the waveguide. Several interesting applications and devices based on this resonance effect can be envisioned. For example, efficient, low-power switching elements appear to be feasible using this concept. Lossless spectral filters (static and tunable) with arbitrarily narrow, controllable linewidth may also be feasible. Using a high spatial frequency dielectric waveguide grating may lead to 100% reflective narrow-band spectrally selective mirrors. These elements can then be used to line-narrow lasers in bulk systems and possibly in integrated optics. Improved thin-film structures and high-precision sensor applications may also be feasible.

© 1992 Optical Society of America