Multi-stage optical switching device
US7046425B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 17, 2003 |
| Grant date | May 16, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 21, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02F2203/026
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An optical switching device contains an active stage coupled to a passive stage. The index of refraction in the active stage is variable to change the entry direction of a light beam into the passive stage, which has a fixed index of refraction. Because the light beam can enter the passive stage at different angles, the exit direction of the light beam from the passive stage can be changed. The resulting optical switch allows switching without any mechanical components.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.