Liquid crystal optical switch coupler

摘要

An optical switch to divert a portion of optical energy from a multimode transmission line. Two rod-like dielectric materials positioned adjacent each other sandwich a liquid crystal material between the two. Input and output fiber bundles are connected to each of the rods. By use of optically transparent electrodes the index of refraction of the liquid crystal is controlled to pass one polarization of light when the crystal index of refraction is the same as the two rod-like dielectric materials and no light transfers when the index of refraction is lower.