Variable optical coupler
AssigneeInternational Standard Electric Corporation
InventorGeorge H. B. Thompson
Life of this patent
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Abstract
This invention relates to an optical waveguide switch and directional coupler providing variable coupling between two optical fibers. The coupler is fabricated in semiconductive material such as GaAs or GaAlAs. A double heterostructure is used having a higher index of refraction middle layer. Optical fibers are inserted in channels in the semiconductive material. Varying the reverse bias across the heterostructure junctions located in the material between the channels electrically changes the refractive index of the material and alters the coupling between the fibers. The device is applicable to switching in optical communication systems.
Claims15
A semiconductive double heterostructure optical waveguide coupler comprising:
- a first layer of semiconductive material having first and second major surfaces;
- a second layer of semiconductive material on said first major surface;
- a third layer of semiconductive material on said second major surface, said first layer having an index of refraction higher than said second and third layers;
- a plurality of channels of semi-insulating material forming coupled optical waveguides, said channels extending through said first and second layers;
- and
- means for applying a reverse bias across said first, second and third layers to produce a depletion region which alters the optical coupling between said waveguides.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.