Multi-stage optical switching device
AssigneeSt. Clair IP Consultants, Inc.
InventorsJohn Minardi, John Janning
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
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.
Claims14
1-15. (canceled)
A method of manufacturing an optical device, the method comprising:
- providing an active element having a refractive layer having a variable index of refraction between a first conductive layer and a second conductive layer, the first and second conductive layers being comprised to substantially retain the transmission of a radiated beam therebetween;
- and
- coupling the active element to a passive element with non-conductive plates at least partially overlaying the active and passive elements, wherein the passive element has a fixed or fixable index of refraction,
- wherein a voltage applied to the first and second conductive layers results in an electric field.
A method of manufacturing an optical device, comprising:
- providing a first element having a first index of refraction;
- providing a second element having a second index of refraction;
- providing non-conductive outer plates that at least partially overlay the first and second elements;
- and
- establishing communication between the first and second elements,
- wherein at least one of the first and second elements has a portion that includes first and a second conductive layers or plates, and wherein the first and second conductive layers or plates substantially retain the transmission of a radiated beam therebetween.
An optical device, comprising:
- a passive element portion;
- an active element portion that communicates with the passive element portion;
- and
- non-conductive outer plates that at least partially overlay the active and passive element portions, wherein the active element portion includes a refractive portion between the non-conductive outer plates, wherein the passive element portion includes a non-conductive middle plate between the non-conductive outer plates.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.