1990-03-08
1991-01-29
Ullah, Akm
350 9620, G02B 610, G02B 626
Patent
active
049881574
ABSTRACT:
An optical switch, particularly useful as a bistable cross-connect matrix. Parallel input waveguides and parallel output waveguides are formed on a substrate at perpendicular angles so as to intersect. A 45.degree. slot is formed across each intersection and is filled with a fluid having a refractive index matching the waveguide material. Electrodes are positioned adjacent the slots and are selectively activated to electrolytically convert the fluid to gaseous bubbles, thereby destroying the index matching across the slot and causing light to be reflected by the slot rather than propagating across the slot. In the presence of a catalyst, a pulse of opposite polarity or of sufficient size and of the same polarity will destroy the bubble.
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Jackel Janet L.
Tomlinson, III Walter J.
Bell Communications Research Inc.
Falk James W.
Guenzer Charles S.
Ullah Akm
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