Paper
15 June 2023 Fast, computationally efficient inverse design of thin films for reflection and transmission
Zunaid Omair, Varun Menon, Kwong-Kit Choi, Patrick Oduor, Achyut K. Dutta
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Abstract
Multilayer optical coatings are used to control the reflection, transmission, and absorption of light in a variety of applications. However, the design of these coatings is a challenging and computationally expensive task. In this article, we present an inverse-design method that provides an efficient and automated way to design one-dimensional optical coatings with superior optical properties. Our approach involves starting with a desired optical response and working backward to determine the optimal coating structure that can achieve that response. To accomplish this, we define a figure of merit (FOM) that maximizes the reflection or transmission within a desired spectral range and polarization. We identify the design variables, calculate the derivatives of the FOM, and iteratively update the thickness of each layer until the desired FOM is achieved. Our method applies to a broad variety of one-dimensional optical coatings, and we demonstrate its effectiveness by designing broadband mirrors and anti-reflection coatings. Our results show that the optimized structures outperform the initial fixed-thickness structures, highlighting the potential of inverse design to simplify the design and fabrication of complex multilayer optical coatings with greater precision and efficiency.
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Zunaid Omair, Varun Menon, Kwong-Kit Choi, Patrick Oduor, and Achyut K. Dutta "Fast, computationally efficient inverse design of thin films for reflection and transmission", Proc. SPIE 12513, Energy Harvesting and Storage: Materials, Devices, and Applications XIII, 125130B (15 June 2023); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2668003
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KEYWORDS
Design and modelling

Optical coatings

Mirrors

Coating thickness

Antireflective coatings

Optical transmission

Reflection

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