Optical multi-channel separating filter with electrically adjustable photon crystals
US6064506A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 24, 1998 |
| Grant date | May 16, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 24, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S977/887
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An optical multipath switch with electrically switchable photonic crystals. The invention involves the construction of optical multipath switches based on electrically switchable photonic crystals. A filled photonic crystal, switchable electrically and/or by light, is used as a tunable mirror. By creating selective optical deformations in the photonic crystal, its properties can be influenced in selected areas in terms of transmission capability. This is done preferably by application of a strong electrical field. Light is coupled in and out via fixed photonic mirrors located at an angle to the photonic crystal. The optical switches of the invention find application in switching networks and serve the purpose of service selection. A very high packing density may be achieved.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.