Low-power, broadband optical switch
US8265433B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 14, 2010 |
| Grant date | Sep 11, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 21, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/3596
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An optical switch is described that includes two optical waveguides, which are defined in a semiconductor layer, positioned proximate to an intermediate component, such as a micro-resonator or a directional coupler. Material underneath a portion of either or both optical waveguides is removed so that the portion of either or both optical waveguides is free standing, and a group of electrodes is proximate to the free-standing portion of either or both optical waveguides. During operation of the optical switch, a spacing-control circuit applies an electrical signal to the group of electrodes. An electrostatic force associated with the electrical signal modifies a spacing between the free-standing portion of either or both optical waveguides and the intermediate component, thereby substantially increasing optical coupling between either or both optical waveguides and the intermediate component to convey a broadband optical signal between the optical waveguides.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.