We propose short and robust directional couplers designed by shortcuts to adiabaticity, based on Lewis-Riesenfeld invariant theory. The design of directional couplers is discussed by combining invariant-based inverse engineering and perturbation theory. The error sensitivity of the coupler is minimized by optimizing the evolution of dynamical invariant with respect to coupling coefficient/input wavelength variations. The proposed robust coupler devices are verified with beam propagation simulations.

We prepared urchin-like micron-sized ZnO cavities with high optical quality by oxidizing metallic Zn and proposed the mechanism that resulted in the growth of the urchin-like microstructures. The photoluminescence spectra of the ZnO microstructures had a predominant excitonic emission at room temperature. The lasing properties of the urchin-like ZnO microstructures were investigated systematically through excitation power- and size-dependent photoluminescence measurements. The results showed that a low lasing threshold with high quality factors could be achieved because of the high reflectivity of the optical reflectors formed by the tapered nanowires. The unique optical characteristics may facilitate the development of high-efficiency random lasers.