Optical waveguides – With optical coupler – Switch
Reexamination Certificate
1999-05-21
2001-06-12
Ullah, Akm E. (Department: 2874)
Optical waveguides
With optical coupler
Switch
Reexamination Certificate
active
06246808
ABSTRACT:
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to a switch apparatus and, more particularly, to an optical switch apparatus and a method for controlling an optical switch.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
It is common to control operation of electronic devices in response to the state of a switch. One particular type of switch makes the operation of the switch dependent upon the passage of light from a light source to a light detector. A conventional optical switch utilizes a light source, such as a light emitting diode (LED), and one or more optical detectors, typically photodetectors, to detect the light from the source. Examples of existing optical switches are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,417,824, 4,878,722 and Nos. 5,721,794. Each of these U.S. patents utilizes various structures for interrupting the passage of light between the optical transmitter and associated optical detector. A signal is derived from the optical detector to control operation of associated equipment.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is an optical switch apparatus comprising a light source which emits light and a light emitting diode (LED) having a condition responsive to the light emitted from the light source. In response to receiving light from the light source, the LED has a biased condition in which the LED is effective to conduct electrical current. The LED also has an unbiased condition in the absence of receiving sufficient light from the light source. The apparatus also includes a switch operatively connected with the LED and responsive to the condition of the LED. The LED effects operation of the switch in a operative state when the LED is in the biased condition. The LED effects operation of the switch in a second operative state different from the first operative state when the LED is in the unbiased condition. Preferably, the biased condition occurs when the LED is operating in a reverse bias mode.
The present invention is also directed to a method for controlling an electrical switch in response to the passage of light from a light source to an adjacent light emitting diode (LED). The method includes the steps of supplying light from the light source and receiving light from the light source at the LED. Upon receiving light from the light source, the LED conducts electrical current in a reverse bias mode which, in turn, effects operation of the electrical switch in a first operative state.
REFERENCES:
patent: 4032951 (1977-06-01), DeWinter et al.
patent: 4072544 (1978-02-01), DeWinter et al.
patent: 4417824 (1983-11-01), Paterson et al.
patent: 4878722 (1989-11-01), Nelson et al.
patent: 5721794 (1998-02-01), Uchiyama et al.
Tarolli, Sundheim, Covell Tummino & Szabo L.L.P.
TRW Inc.
Ullah Akm E.
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