Ultra-compact and polarization-independent power splitter with a variable splitting ratio

An ultra-compact and polarization-independent optical power splitter with a variable splitting ratio has been proposed based on the inverse design method. The footprint of the simulated device is only 1.96×1.96µ<i>m</i>², demonstrating its highly compact nature. The simulation results exhibit that the transmission efficiencies of the device structures with ratios of 1:1, 1:1.5, and 1:2 exceed 92% for both TE and TM polarization states within a bandwidth wavelength of 50 nm (1525-1575 nm). The insertion losses are less than 0.38 dB. Additionally, the simulated device exhibits high fabrication tolerances.