Optical imaging device and method
US4497544A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 27, 1982 |
| Grant date | Feb 5, 1985 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 27, 2002 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02F1/0147
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An optical imaging device includes an optical device comprising means for absorbing at least one wavelength of light incident thereupon, a first layer of a first material having a first index of refraction and being in thermal contact with the absorbing means, and a second layer of a second material having a second index of refraction which is larger than the first index of refraction and which forms an interface with the first layer. The first layer is placed between the absorbing means and the second layer. The phase, amplitude or both phase and amplitude of the reflected light can be modulated by thermally induced changes in the first index of refraction. A method of modulating a first optical beam with a second optical beam is also provided.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.