Learning Forum

[adi.schlesinger]

Hi,
I am simulating the reflection from voids in silicon using an analysis group for diffraction gratings, focusing on the zero-order results. As the next step, I plan to fill the voids with a liquid crystal (LC), which is a birefringent material, and then create a cell composed of several different layers. Based on the guidance provided on your website, achieving reliable results requires a homogeneous environment. How should I approach the combination of a birefringent material and a non-homogeneous environment in my simulations? I have attached the relevant explanation and the link from Ansys website for reference.
https://optics.ansys.com/hc/en-us/articles/360042088813-Diffraction-grating

[Kirill]

Dear Subscriber,

Using the grating analysis group should work well for more complex structures, including multilayer ones, as long as periodicity in the X and Y directions can be assumed.

The note about a "Homogeneous environment" is a general warning. It assumes semi-infinite uniform media before and after the grating, with no other structures outside the grating influencing the light (diffraction orders). For example, the grating structure is assumed to lie between air and a substrate, with no light injected from inside the grating.

When modifying the structure, please follow the suggestions described in the "Updating the model with your parameters" section.

Best regards,
Kirill