Optical mode solving for complex waveguides using a finite cloud method.

A meshless method for the solution of full vectorial optical mode fields has been applied to micro-structured optical waveguides. The Finite Cloud Method is used to approximate the solution using a point distribution and material definitions. Presented are two methods of defining material interfaces, one which implements a step index and a second which uses a graded index. Coupled field equations are used to solve for both transverse components of the magnetic field as well as the guided wavelength and effective index of refraction. Comparing results for a ridge waveguide, solid core, micro-structured and air core structures with commercial FEM solvers highlight the methods versatility, accuracy and efficiency.