Integrated fiber array optical switch and method of operation
US6393175B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 15, 2000 |
| Grant date | May 21, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 15, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/3574
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An optical switch includes an input member, a reflective output member coupled to the input member, and a transmissive output member. The input member supports a plurality of input waveguides, each input waveguide having a reflective surface and operable to receive a corresponding optical signal. The reflective output member supports a plurality of first output waveguides, each first output waveguide coupled to a corresponding input waveguide. The transmissive output member supports a plurality of second output waveguides and has a first position spaced apart from the input member such that the reflective surface of each input waveguide totally internally reflects a corresponding optical signal to a corresponding one of the first output waveguides, and a second position in proximal contact with the input member such that each second output waveguide frustrates the total internal reflection of a corresponding input waveguide and receives a corresponding optical signal.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.