Recent developments in finite element analysis of optical and microwave devices

This paper summarizes and illustrates some of the current forms of using the finite element method in the analysis of microwave and optical structures. Modal and propagation methods are reviewed. An accurate and efficient method for the vectorial modal analysis of waveguides which also permits the treatment of open waveguides including leakage is described and illustrated with examples of complex modes in microwaves and a leaky ARROW structure in optics. The use of finite elements in propagation methods is also briefly described and illustrated