(De)multiplexer with four 'F' configuration and hybrid lens

摘要

An apparatus for multiplexing or demultiplexing optical signals in an optical communication system includes a plurality of optical waveguides aligned generally along the same optical axis each having a propagating end. A reflective grating is optically coupled to the plurality of optical waveguides along the optical axis and has a surface receiving an optical signal emitted from at least one of the optical waveguides. The surface diffracts the optical signals into at least one other of the optical waveguides. A collimating/focusing optic having a select focal length is optically coupled between the plurality of optical waveguides and the reflective grating along the optical axis. The collimating/focusing optic is positioned relative to the propagating ends of the plurality of optical waveguides and the reflective echelle grating to propagate a telecentric optical beam(s) into the at least one other of the optical waveguides.