Bistable optical component incorporates at least two vibratory cavities, one or more of which is coupled (3,5,6) to an optical input and also one or more of which is connected to an optical outlet

摘要

The bistable optical component incorporates at least two vibratory cavities (1,2), one or more of which is coupled to an optical input and also one or more of which is connected to an optical outlet. Each vibratory cavity can create light in at least two non-coupled resonance directions (16,17,18,19). The cavities are so optically coupled so that light from the one can be coupled into the other in one of its resonance directions. Also within the scope of the invention are a number of other optical components based on the same principle of connection. A method is also incorporated for control of the bistable optical component. The two vibratory cavities are micro-ring lasers.