N x N switch array with reduced components
US6134358A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 27, 1998 |
| Grant date | Oct 17, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 27, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04Q2011/006
- WIPO fieldTelecommunications
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Switch arrays are provided with controllable polarization modifiers and polarization-dependent diverters, such as one or more polarization beam splitters, for configuring switch arrays which can reduce or eliminate the need for optical fibers in the switch arrays. In one embodiment, input positions configured in a first preferably planar (e.g., horizontal) configuration are routed to one or more of a corresponding plurality of output positions which are configured in a different arrangement such as in an orthogonal (e.g., vertical) planar arrangement. Preferably some or all of the polarization-related optical components, including components such as birefringent devices, liquid crystal polarization rotator arrays and/or polarization beam splitters are integrated so that one such device can be used in connection with a plurality of input and/or output beams.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.