Ultraviolet and visible light integrated acousto-optic modulators
US12416824B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 25, 2023 |
| Grant date | Sep 16, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 7, 2043 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB06B1/0644
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An acousto-optic modulator that includes a waveguide on an acoustic actuator is disclosed. The waveguide carries an optical signal having a UV or visible wavelength. When the acoustic actuator is activated, the optical signal in the waveguide is bathed in intense acoustic waves. By using a waveguide having the appropriate dimensions to strongly confine both the optical signal and the acoustic waves, strong optomechanical coupling may be achieved between the optical and acoustic modes, resulting in an efficient modulator. By employing either intra-modal or inter-modal conversion, the modulator may be used to implement a variety of dual- or single-sideband functions, including an isolator, a phase modulator, a single-sideband frequency shifter, or a high-extinction shutter.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.