Optical switching and attenuation systems and methods therefor

Details Optical switching and attenuation systems and methods therefor Optical switching and attenuation systems and methods therefor

2002-06-11

2003-07-08

Phan, James (Department: 2872)

Optical waveguides

With optical coupler

Switch

C385S015000, C385S016000, C385S017000, C359S230000

Reexamination Certificate

active

06591032

ABSTRACT:

FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to optical systems in general, and more particularly to switches and attenuators for use in optical systems.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
In many situations, it is necessary to switch or attenuate a light signal within an optical system.
By way of example but not limitation, in a typical optical system, it may be necessary to switch a light signal between a first line and a second line.
By way of further example but not limitation, in a typical optical system, it may be necessary to attenuate a light signal passing through a line.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
One object of the present invention is to provide novel apparatus for switching a light signal in an optical system.
Another object of the present invention is to provide novel apparatus for attenuating a light signal in an optical system.
Still another object of the present invention is to provide a novel method for switching a light signal in an optical system.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a novel method for attenuating a light signal in an optical system.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
These and other objects of the present invention are addressed by the provision and use of novel light switches and attenuators. In one form of the invention, a novel 2×2 crossbar switch is formed by positioning a movable reflector intermediate four fiberoptic lines. In another form of the invention, a 1×N switch is formed by providing a plurality of cantilevers each having a reflective surface thereon. In still another form of the invention, a novel light attenuator is formed by positioning a movable arm intermediate two fiberoptic elements.


REFERENCES:
patent: 5329103 (1994-07-01), Rando
patent: 5903380 (1999-05-01), Motamedi et al.
patent: 5960132 (1999-09-01), Lin
patent: 6477292 (2002-11-01), Takahashi

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