Design and optimization of a Mach-Zehnder Interferometer (MZI) for optical modulators

This paper presents an investigation of the most influential parameters in designing a Mach Zehnder Interferometer (MZI) on Silicon-On-Insulator (SOI) using Taguchi method. The symmetric Y-junction is employed in designing the MZI. Meanwhile, parameters affecting the design of a MZI such as the area of the waveguide, offset in X direction (lx), offset in Z direction (lz) and the arm length were considered and varied for optimization purposes. Design and optimization of passive MZI structure is crucial prior to implementation of active devices.