Furthermore, the proposed optimization process showcases how to combine varFDTD with fully 3D FDTD solver to significantly reduce optimization time while maintaining high accuracy. The algorithm in this example is Lumerical’s built in particle swarm optimization (PSO) that offers an easy setup via user interface. This silicon on insulator Y-branch example demonstrates a general component shape parametrization method that is suitable for an arbitrary optimization routine. Component optimization is a key step of any design process striving to develop high-performance photonic devices.
