Perturbative numerical modeling of microstructure fibers

Modeling of microstructure fibers often involves severe computational bottlenecks, in particular when a design space with many degrees of freedom must be analyzed. Perturbative versions of numerical mode-solvers can substantially reduce the computational burden of problems involving automated optimization or irregularity analysis, where perturbations arise naturally. A basic theory is presented for perturbative multipole and boundary element methods, and the speed and accuracy of the methods are demonstrated. The specific optimization results in an elliptical-hole birefringent fiber design, with substantially higher birefringence than the intuitive unoptimized design. (C) 2004 Optical Society of America.