Optical Waveguide Sheet With Periodic Tapered Core

The optical waveguide is divided into three distinct sections: a first end with a first core diameter, a second end with a second core diameter, and a middle section with a gradually changing core diameter. This segmentation allows each section to be optimized independently for its specific function while simplifying the overall manufacturing process compared to creating a complex two-dimensional taper in a single step.

The invention transitions from attempting to create a two-dimensional taper (changing both width and height simultaneously) to creating a one-dimensional taper (changing core diameter along the propagation direction). This dimensional simplification makes the manufacturing process feasible using conventional techniques while still achieving the desired optical coupling improvement.

The invention replaces expensive semiconductor manufacturing steps with a more economical drawing or extrusion process. While the semiconductor method would provide precise taper control, it requires clean rooms, specialized equipment, and multiple processing steps. The drawing method uses simpler, more cost-effective equipment to achieve sufficient precision for optical applications.

The invention replaces the complex photochemical and thermal processing steps of semiconductor manufacturing with a mechanical drawing or extrusion process. This substitution eliminates the need for photolithography, etching, and deposition steps, significantly reducing device complexity and production cost while maintaining adequate manufacturing precision.