Integrated bi-directional gradient refractive index wavelength division multiplexer
US6011885A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 13, 1997 |
| Grant date | Jan 4, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 13, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/2938
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A wavelength division multiplexer integrating a dispersive element having a gradient refractive index with optical lenses to provide efficient coupling from a plurality of input optical fibers (each delivering a plurality of discrete wavelengths to the device) which are multiplexed to a single polychromatic beam for output to a single output optical fiber. The device comprises: (a) an input means for accepting a plurality of optical input beams of different wavelengths from a plurality of optical sources, the means including a planar front surface onto which the optical beams are incident; (b) a dispersive element comprising a radial (or axial) gradient refractive index for combining the plurality of optical input beams into a single optical beam and operatively associated with the planar front surface; (c) a coupler subsystem secured to the dispersive element and comprising (1) a first homogeneous index boot lens having a planar front surface onto which the single optical beam from the dispersive element is incident, (2) an axial gradient refractive index collimating lens affixed to the first homogeneous index boot lens, and (3) a planar back surface from which the single optical …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.