Optical waveguides – Accessories – Attenuator
Reexamination Certificate
2005-02-15
2005-02-15
Robinson, Mark A. (Department: 2872)
Optical waveguides
Accessories
Attenuator
C359S288000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06856752
ABSTRACT:
A device for variable attenuation of an optical channel includes an elongated core surrounded by a cladding. Optical energy propagating along the longitudinal axis of the core is normally confined thereto by the difference in refractive indices between the core and cladding. The thermo-optic coefficients of the core and cladding are closely matched such that waveguide confinement is substantially invariant with respect to ambient temperature. The device further includes a thermal source arranged above the core. The thermal source is operable to generate a temperature gradient of controllable magnitude along a vertical axis extending through the core. The temperature gradient causes reduction of the local refractive index within the core relative to surrounding regions of the cladding such that a portion of the optical energy is deflected away from the thermal source and extracted from the core.
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Bischel William K.
Kowalczyk Tony C.
Amari Alessandro
Robinson Mark A.
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