Multiple signal representation simulation of photonic devices, systems, and networks

Photonic systems design requires simulation over a wide range of scales; from wavelength-sized resonances in lasers and filters, to interactions in global networks. To design these global systems, while considering the effects of the smallest component, requires sophisticated simulation technology. We have developed the Photonic Transmission Design Suite, which includes five different signal representations, so that the details of device performance can be efficiently considered within a large network simulation. Alternatively, a design can be studied using a coarse signal representation before switching to a detailed representation for further refinement. We give examples of the application of these representations, and show how the representation of a signal is adapted as it propagates through a system to optimize simulation efficiency.