Segmented optical switch
US6587610B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 26, 2001 |
| Grant date | Jul 1, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 20, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/3584
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
In an effort to greatly decrease the insertion losses inherent in larger sized M×N optical switches, the present invention deals with minimizing the variation in the optical path lengths of optical beams passing through the switch. To accomplish this goal, the present invention relates to a segmented optical switch comprising four segments, two segments having input ports and two segments having output ports. The segments having output ports are separated from each other, and positioned on adjacent sides of the segments with input ports. Accordingly, the very short optical paths as well as the very long optical paths in the switch are eliminated, thereby minimizing the variation in the optical path lengths. Preferably, the switch is comprised of four identical segments, making manufacturing and supply costs less.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.