Design of Three-Dimensional Optical Circuit Devices by Using Topology Optimization Method With Function-Expansion-Based Refractive Index Distribution

We extend topology optimization method with function-expansion-based refractive index distribution to optimization for three-dimensional optical circuits, in which a refractive index distribution in a design region is expressed by an expansion with some analytical functions. Three-branch optical waveguides have been optimized as numerical examples. Equally branching three-branch waveguides are achieved using our method. A limitation of topology optimization in two dimensions and dependency of initial structure are also shown.