Multi-stage optical switching device
AssigneeSt. Clair Intellectual Property Consultants, Inc.
InventorsJohn E. Minardi, John L. 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
A method of manufacturing an optical device, comprising:
- providing a first element having a first index of refraction;
- providing a second element in communication with the first element and having a second index of refraction, wherein the first and second elements include non-conductive outer plates that at least partially overlay the first and second elements;
- and
- providing a refractive layer comprising liquid crystals between the first and second conductive layers or plates, such that the refractive layer can change the direction of a radiated beam that is transmitted between the first and second conductive layers or plates.
A method of manufacturing an optical device, comprising:
- providing first and second nonconductive plates;
- disposing or forming a conductive layer on a portion of the first plate and on a portion of the second plate;
- providing a third nonconductive plate between portions of the first and second plates such that the third plate does not contact the conductive layers and a passive element is formed that comprises the third plate along with the first and second plates;
- and
- providing a refractive layer comprising liquid crystals between the conductive layers formed on the first and second plates to form an active element with a variable index of refraction such that the active element can change the entry direction of a radiated beam into the passive element to cause total internal reflection of the beam in the passive element.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.