Finite-element formulation for full-vectorial propagation analysis in three-dimensional optical waveguides

A three-dimensional (3-D) full-vectorial beam propagation method based on finite elements is presented. A new formulation suitable for the numerical discretization through the finite elements and able to take into account both polarization dependence and field component coupling has been derived. Advantages and potentialities of the finite elements usage are discussed. The precision of the proposed approach is demonstrated through numerical examples.