Chains of coupled square dielectric optical microcavities

Abstract

Chains of coupled square dielectric cavities are investigated in a 2-D setting, by means of a quasi-analytical eigenmode expansion method. Resonant transfer of optical power can be achieved along quite arbitrary, moderately long rectangular paths (up to 9 coupled cavities are considered), even with individual standing-wave resonators of limited quality. We introduce an ab-initio coupled mode model, based on a simple superposition of slab mode profiles as a template for the field of individual cavities. Although no loss mechanisms are built in, the model can still help to interprete the results of the former numerical experiments.