Controlled optical splitter using a diffractive optical element and optical demultiplexer incorporating same
OwnerLisa A. Buckman, Jonathan Simon +1inventors
InventorsLisa A. Buckman, Jonathan Simon, Ian Hardcastle
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Abstract
The optical splitter includes a diffractive optical element (DOE) to create a generally two-dimensional array of beams of light from an input light beam. Each beam carries substantially identical information content. The intensity and the position of each element of the array of beams may be controlled. In addition, an embodiment of the invention is an optical demultiplexer that comprises the above optical splitter.
Claims29
An optical splitter configured to receive an input light beam for splitting, the optical splitter comprising:
- a diffractive optical element having a first surface for receiving the input light beam, and at least a second surface for progressing a plurality of divisional light beams;
- and
- an output plane having a plurality of encounter spots for passing the plurality of divisional light beams therethrough for processing individually and independently of each other.
A communication system, comprising:
- a diffractive optical element for receiving an input light beam, splitting the input light beam into a plurality of divisional light beams, and transmitting the divisional light beams;
- and
- a plurality of receiving elements for receiving the divisional light beams.
A method for processing an input light beam, comprising:
- illuminating a diffractive optical element with the input light beam;
- and
- dividing the input light beam into at least two divisional beams and directing the divisional beams in predetermined, independent directions by means of the diffractive optical element.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.