Optical switch with optically-induced grating

摘要

An optical switch is disclosed having what may be characterized as an optically-induced grating. One embodiment of such an optical switch includes first and second waveguides. An optical mask is formed on a side of the first waveguide opposite that which faces the second waveguide. Multiple slits exist in this optical mask in alignment with an output from a light source. Changing the mode of this light force changes the output of the light source directed onto the slits, and changes the state of the first and second waveguides from being optically decoupled to optically coupled.