Write head mode optical mode converter using three-dimensional waveguide and dual-mode waveguide

摘要

A write head includes a three-dimensional waveguide extending along a light-propagation direction. The three-dimensional waveguide is configured to receive light from a light source at a fundamental transverse electric (TE) mode. The three-dimensional waveguide includes an input coupler, a curved middle section, and a terminating end. The input coupler is tapered between the light source and the curved middle section. The write head includes a dual-mode waveguide extending along the light propagation direction and has an edge proximate to and separated from the curved section by a gap at a coupling region. The three-dimensional waveguide excites a higher-order TE mode in the dual-mode waveguide via the coupling region.

主权项

1. A write head comprising:
a three-dimensional waveguide extending along a light-propagation direction and configured to receive light from a light source at a fundamental transverse electric (TE) mode, the three-dimensional waveguide comprising, in order along the light propagation direction, an input coupler, a curved middle section, and a terminating end, the input coupler being tapered between the light source and the curved middle section; a dual-mode waveguide extending along the light propagation direction and having an edge proximate to and separated from the curved section by a gap at a coupling region, the three-dimensional waveguide exciting a higher-order TE mode in the dual-mode waveguide via the coupling region; and a near-field transducer at a media-facing surface of the write head, the near-field transducer receiving the light at the higher-order TE mode from the dual-mode waveguide.