Optical modulator with a traveling surface relief pattern

Abstract

A variable modulator assembly includes a deformable layer adhered to a compliant layer surface, and an n-phase electrode configuration, n>2, adhered to an opposite surface of the compliant layer. A controller is configured to selectively apply a variable signal to the selected electrodes of the electrode configuration. Application of the variable signal causes the deformable layer to reconfigure to an alternated shape having distinct peaks and valleys. The distance between the peaks and valleys being determined by the value of the applied variable signal, wherein the alternated shape travels in a preferred direction. An optical modulating method includes positioning the variable modulator assembly to receive and reflect light from a light source, monitoring the reflected light, and altering the variable signal to maintain a desired output intensity.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE [0001] The following application is related to the present disclosure: U.S. Ser. No. 10 / 423752, Uma Srinivasan, Eric J. Shrader, entitled CONFIGURABLE GRATING BASED ON SURFACE RELIEF PATTERN FOR USE AS A VARIABLE OPTICAL ATTENUATOR, fully incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND [0002] The present exemplary embodiment relates to optical grating assemblies. It finds particular application in conjunction with an assembly and method for an elastomer-based grating assembly based on a travelling surface relief pattern for use as a variable optical attenuator, and will be described with particular reference thereto. However, it is to be appreciated that the present exemplary embodiment is also amenable to other like applications. [0003] Fiber networks normally employ point-to-point links, which are static, where most of the intelligence, provisioning and grooming functions are provided by electronics at the ends of each link. As network architectures grow in size and co...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present patent describes a variable modulator assembly and an optical modulating method using the assembly. The assembly includes a compliant layer and a deformable layer, which can be controlled by a controller to reconfigure to an altered shape having distinct peaks and valleys, which move in a preferred direction in the plane of the deformable layer. The optical modulating method involves positioning the assembly to receive light from a light source, controlling the deformation of the deformable layer by selective activation of an electrode configuration adhered to a second surface of the compliant layer, and creating electrostatic charges which deform the deformable layer into a travelling pattern moving in a direction parallel to the plane of the deformable layer corresponding to the activated electrodes. The present patent also describes a method for fabricating a VOA device using the described assembly and methods. The technical effects of the invention include improved optical modulation and improved device fabrication.

Problems solved by technology

As network architectures grow in size and complexity, however, this approach to building and maintaining network infrastructure will not satisfy the requirements of reliability, efficiency and cost-effectiveness required by service providers.

As an example of their usefulness, if a network is providing a wavelength route that is approximately 60 km in length, at a predetermined power, and the network attempts to change the wavelength route to one which is 30 km, it would be expected that excessive power would be delivered to the end receivers of the 30 km route, potentially resulting in a malfunction in the network.

Drift of the output power of the VOA can become an issue under such circumstances.

While these devices have acceptable optical performance, tradeoffs include slow speed, undesirable noise and a potential for mechanical failure.

The foregoing material does not address the noted shortcomings of existing systems.

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