Network analysis of eigenvalue problem for multilayer dielectric waveguide consisting of arbitrary number of layers

In this paper, the eigenvalue problem of a multilayer dielectric waveguide consisting of arbitrary number of layers is solved by the microwave network method. A general program with the function of computer graphics has been developed for analyzing the dispersion characteristics and the electromagnetic field distributions of an N layer dielectric waveguide. As examples of practical applications of the program, first, the dispersions and field patterns for the planar waveguides with refractive index of parabolic and exponential profiles are analyzed. Secondly, the procedure of mode conversion and mode separation in dielectric branching waveguides is vividly demonstrated through analyzing the field distributions of asymmetric multilayer dielectric structures and the general rules of mode conversion are discussed. The examples show that the present method possesses the advantages of versatility, rapidity, simplicity and accuracy.