Integrated-optics-based stress-optic phase modulator and method for forming
US10437081B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 1, 2019 |
| Grant date | Oct 8, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 1, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B2006/12142
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A phase controller for controlling the phase of a light signal in a surface waveguide and a method for its fabrication are disclosed. The phase controller controls the phase of the light signal by inducing stress in the waveguide structure, thereby controlling the refractive indices of at least some of its constituent layers. The phase controller includes a phase-control element formed on topographic features of the top cladding of the waveguide, where these features (1) provide a shape to the phase-control element that matches the shape of the mode field of the light signal and (2) give rise to stress-concentration points that focus and direct induced stress into specific regions of the waveguide structure, thereby providing highly efficient phase control. As a result, the phase controller can operate at a lower voltage, lower power, and/or over a shorter interaction length than integrated-optic phase controllers of the prior art.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.