Method and system for providing an optical circulator

Details Method and system for providing an optical circulator Method and system for providing an optical circulator

1999-08-31

2001-01-23

Shafer, Ricky D. (Department: 2872)

Optical: systems and elements

Polarization without modulation

Polarization using a time invariant electric, magnetic, or...

C359S490020, C359S490020, C359S900000, C359S282000, C372S703000, C385S011000, C385S027000, C385S033000, C385S036000, C385S039000

Reexamination Certificate

active

06178044

ABSTRACT:

FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to optical technology, and more particularly to a method and system for providing an optical circulator.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Conventional optical circulators are employed in systems transmitting optical signals in order to transmit optical signals in a particular direction. For example, in a three port optical circulator, an optical signal input at the first port will be transmitted to the second port. An optical signal input at the second port will be transmitted to the third port. However, optical signals will not be transmitted in the reverse direction. For example, an optical signal input at the second port will not be transmitted to the first port.
Although conventional optical circulators function, they typically include a large number of elements. Furthermore, the path the optical signal travels, known as the optical path, is typically relatively long. Consequently, additional losses are introduced, reducing the amplitude of the optical signal.
Accordingly, what is needed is a system and method for providing an optical circulator having reduced losses. It would also be beneficial if the optical circulator was less expensive. The present invention addresses such a need.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a method and system for providing an optical circulator. The optical circulator comprises a first port, a second port, a third port, and means for establishing a first optical path and a second optical path. The first optical path is from the first port to the second port. The second optical path is from the second port to the third port. The optical path establishing means also includes a wedge and a first birefringent material. The wedge intersects the second optical path but not the first optical path. The wedge is for ensuring that the second optical path includes the third port but not the first port. The wedge does so by deflecting an optical signal input from the second port, but not an optical signal from the first port. The first birefringent material intersects the first optical path and the second optical path and is disposed between the wedge and the second port along the second optical path. The first birefringent material is for ensuring that the second optical path includes the third port but not the first port and for ensuring that the first optical path includes the second port.
According to the system and method disclosed herein, the present invention provides an optical circulator which can be made smaller and more cheaply than conventional optical circulators.


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