Modeling propagation characteristics of multimode graded-index waveguides with finite elements using edge-based elements

Realizing electrical printed circuit boards with integrated optical interconnects for high bandwidth interconnects requires numerical models and procedures for analyzing and optimizing signal propagation within optical multimode waveguides. This paper presents a method based on the finite element method with edge elements in order to calculate the propagation constants of the guided modes of graded-index waveguides. This type of waveguides can be implemented in thin-glass applying an ion-exchange process.