Annular Bragg defect mode resonators

We propose and analyze a new type of a resonator in an annular geometry that is based on a single defect surrounded by radial Bragg reflectors on both sides. We show that the conditions for efficient mode confinement are different from those of the conventional Bragg waveguiding in a rectangular geometry. A simple and intuitive approach to the design of optimal radial Bragg reflectors is proposed and employed, yielding chirped gratings. Small bending radii and strong control over the resonator dispersion are possible by the Bragg confinement. A design compromise between large free-spectral-range requirements and fabrication tolerances is suggested. (C) 2003 Optical Society of America.