摘要 |
A fiber optical control system for use in an optical switch generally includes, in one embodiment, a fiber assembly (86), a signal separator (88), a sensor unit (90), a lens assembly (92), stationary mirror (94), targeting RED (96), moveable mirror assembly (98) with mounted alignment REDs (100), window (102) and a processor (104). The separator (88) separates the control signals from the communication signals so that the control signals are received by the sensor unit (90) and the communication signals are received by fiber (106). The control signals received by the sensor unit (90) provide target identification and alignment information for connecting target fibers. In particular, the targeting RED (96), or in alternative embodiments the alignment REDs, associated with a signal fiber can be pulsed or otherwise operated to convey target identification information, thereby avoiding the need for a long series of column and row signaling for targeting. The moveable mirror assembly (98) includes moveable mirror surfaces (132) with related control elements and REDs (100) mounted on a housing (134). The assembly (98) is used to actuate both targeting and alignment adjustments. The mirror surfaces (132) move in response to commands from processor (104) to allow for adjustment of the optical path of the communication and control signals received through window (102) in two dimensions relative to the fiber (106) and sensor unit (90).
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