Finite-element method using Hermitian line elements for planar diffused optical waveguides

A finite-element method using the Hermitian line elements is proposed for the analysis of planar diffused optical waveguides. In the Hermitian line elements, both the field and its derivative are considered at the nodal point. Therefore, the continuity of the field and its derivative between elements can be satisfied. To show the accuracy of the method, a planar diffused optical waveguide with exponential index profile is analysed, and the results obtained are compared with the results of the earlier finite-element method using the Lagrangian elements and the exact solutions. In the Hermitian finite-element method, the computation cost can be significantly reduced