Light coupling method with integrated beam shaping for light from waveguide

摘要

The method allows light to be coupled out, from planar waveguides and semiconductor diode lasers, with and without a tapered amplifier, using a decoupling grating in the cladding of the waveguide. The method also provides integral beam shaping. The beam shaping is achieved by variation of the cladding thickness or the refractive index in the cladding or in the grating grooves along the decoupling grating. Preferably, the cladding thickness tapers at the location of the decoupling grating. Deviations from the tapered wedge shape of the beam may also be permitted. The beam shaping may be supported by modulation of the grating e.g. the grating depth, duty cycle, grating profile.