Integrated bi-directional dual axial gradient refractive index/diffraction grating wavelength division multiplexer
US6137933A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 25, 1999 |
| Grant date | Oct 24, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 25, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/2938
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A wavelength division multiplexer/demultiplexer is provided that integrates axial gradient refractive index elements with a diffraction grating to provide efficient coupling from a plurality of input optical sources (each delivering a single wavelength to the device) which are multiplexed to a single polychromatic beam for output to a single output optical source. The device comprises: (a) means for accepting an optical input from at least one optical source, the means including a planar surface; (b) a first coupler element comprising (1) a first axial gradient refractive index collimating lens having a planar entrance surface onto which the optical input is incident and (2) a first homogeneous index boot lens affixed to the first collimating lens and having a planar exit surface from which optical light exits; (c) a diffraction grating formed on the planar exit surface which combines a plurality of angularly separated diffracted wavelengths from the optical light; (d) a reflecting element for reflecting the plurality of diffracted wavelengths; (e) a second coupler element comprising (1) a second homogeneous index boot lens having a planar entrance surface onto which said plurality…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.