Polarization transformer and polarization mode dispersion compensator
Assignee3M Innovative Properties Company
InventorLevent Biyikli
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A polarization transformer can be constructed using a continuously adjustable polarization transforming device and a limited-range adjustable polarization transforming device. In general, the response time of the limited-range adjustable polarization transforming device is faster than that of the continuously adjustable polarization transforming device. When the two devices are properly controlled using error signals derived from a transformed optical signal, the polarization state of the optical signal can be adjusted with sufficient speed and without the loss of control associated with reset cycles.
Claims35
A polarization transformer operable to reorient polarization components of an incident optical signal, the polarization transformer comprising:
- a continuously adjustable retarder operable to provide reset-free operation and continuous control of a polarization state of the optical signal;
- and
- a limited-range adjustable retarder located in optical communication with the continuously adjustable retarder and operable to provide limited-range control of the polarization state of the optical signal, wherein the limited range adjustable retarder has a first response time and the continously adjustable retarder has a second response time, the first response time being shorter than the second response time.
A system for compensating for polarization mode dispersion in an optical signal, the system comprising:
- a polarization transformer operable to reorient polarization components of an incident optical signal, the polarization transformer including:
- a continuously adjustable retarder operable to provide reset-free operation and continuous control of a polarization state of the optical signal;
- and
- a limited range adjustable retarder located in optical communication with the continuously adjustable retarder and operable to provide limited-range control of the polarization state of the optical signal, wherein the limited range adjustable retarder has a first response time and the continuously adjustable retarder has a second response time, the first response time being shorter than the second response time;
- a delay system operable to adjust the relative delay between a first reoriented polarization component of the optical signal and a second reoriented polarization component of the optical signal;
- and
- a controller coupled to the polarization transformer and operable to provide control signals to the limited-range adjustable retarder and the continuously adjustable retarder.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.