VARIABLE OPTICAL ATTENUATOR

摘要

A variable optical attenuator of the multiple-aperture type is disclosed. Th e attenuator comprises a thin element having a plurality of apertures therein. The plurality of apertures is arranged such that the size of most of the apertures increases along a distance of the thin element. In particular, the plurality of apertures is arranged i n a carefully designed pattern wherein the percentage of transmitted light varies from one end of the pattern to the other. The variable optical attenuator is substantially wavelength and polarization independent.