Variable transmission multi-channel optical switch
US6798941B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 20, 2001 |
| Grant date | Sep 28, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 7, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04Q2011/0052
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A multi-wavelength or white-light optical switch including an array of mirrors tiltable about two axes, both to control the switching and to provide variable power transmission through the switch, both for optimization and for power equalization between wavelength channels in a multi-wavelength signal. The output power of a channel is monitored, thereby allowing feedback adjustment of the transmitted power. The mirrors are preferably formed in a micro electromechanics system array to be tiltable in orthogonal directions and having electrostatically controlled tilting by two pairs of electrodes beneath the mirrors. Input power of the separate channels may also be monitored.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.