Frustrated total internal reflection optical switch using waveguides and method of operation
US6529655B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 14, 2000 |
| Grant date | Mar 4, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 14, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/3592
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An optical switch for processing an optical signal includes a refractive material and an input waveguide formed in the refractive material that is operable to receive an optical signal. First and second output waveguides are also formed in the refractive material. A switchplate is coupled to the refractive material and has a first position spaced apart from the input waveguide and a second position in proximal contact with the input waveguide. When the switchplate is placed in the first position, the input waveguide totally internally reflects the optical signal toward the first output waveguide. When the switchplate is placed in the second position, the switchplate frustrates the total internal reflection of the optical signal such that the second output waveguide receives the optical signal.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.