Device for tuning wavelength response of an optical fiber grating
US5987200A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 27, 1997 |
| Grant date | Nov 16, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 27, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02F2201/307
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A tunable fiber grating comprises a temperature-sensitive body secured to a fiber having a fiber grating region for transmitting thermally-induced strain to the grating. The amount of strain and hence the degree of wavelength tuning are controlled by adjusting the temperature of the temperature-sensitive body, wherein the extent of adjustment is preferably pre-determined according to feedback from a wavelength detector. Large thermal strains obtainable with the present invention allow a wide range of wavelength tuning with a relatively small and convenient temperature change near ambient temperature. In a preferred embodiment, the temperature-sensitive body is cylindrical and comprised of a nickel-titanium alloy bonded to the grating. In alternative arrangements, the thermal strain effect can be amplified. An add/drop multiplexer employing the tunable gratings is also described.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.