Optical switching apparatus for use in an optical communication system
US6094293A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 22, 1999 |
| Grant date | Jul 25, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 22, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/3548
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An optical switch includes a light emitter for emitting light and light receivers. A reflector is used for changing a path of light emitted from the light emitter. The reflector is held by a permanent magnet having first and second magnetic poles of opposite polarities. A supporting member is provided for the reflector and the first permanent magnet so that the reflector and the first permanent magnet can move between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the reflector and the first permanent magnet interact so the emitted light travels into one light receiver of the light receivers. On the other hand, in the second position, the reflector and the first permanent magnet interact so the emitted light travels into another of the light receivers. The switch further includes an electromagnet for generating first and second magnetic fields selectively for moving the reflector and the first permanent magnet between the first and second positions.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.