Following the typical process outlined in tutorials like the "Ring Resonator" example, a standard workflow looks like this:
RSoft CAD uses a standardized 3D Cartesian coordinate system ( ) optimized for wave propagation:
Absorbs outgoing waves completely. Use this for open boundaries. rsoft cad manual
For those moving toward fabrication, the CAD manual provides instructions on several essential utilities:
The manual is typically organized into sections covering the setup of photonic structures and the execution of simulations: Installation and system requirements. Physical conventions (e.g., units, coordinate systems). GUI vs. CLI operation and log file management. Chapter 2: Background Overview of technical capabilities. Mathematical foundations, such as Maxwell’s Equations. Design & Layout (Chapters 3-9) Following the typical process outlined in tutorials like
Full versions of these manuals are often restricted to licensed users, but summaries and excerpts can be found on these platforms:
RSoft CAD provides several ways to define how light interacts with the structure. The Material Editor allows for the inclusion of frequency-dependent (dispersive) data, which is critical for accurate FDTD simulations in FullWAVE. Users can also define "Effective Index" profiles to simplify 3D problems into 2D simulations, significantly reducing computation time without sacrificing essential physics. Simulation Setup and Execution Physical conventions (e
: Track field evolution over time (crucial for FullWAVE FDTD).
: Linear or parabolic transitions can be applied to smoothly match a narrow single-mode waveguide to a wider multimode interference (MMI) section. 4. Setting Up Simulation Parameters
Monitors calculate power, transmission, and spectral responses:
The RSoft CAD acts as the "front end" for several specialized engines: