Variable splitting optical coupler

摘要

A variable splitting optical coupler includes a first port assembly, a second port assembly, a movable deflecting element assembly and a third port assembly. The first port assembly includes a first lensing element and receives a first optical signal. The second port assembly includes a second lensing element and emits a variable transmitted portion of the first optical signal. The movable deflecting element assembly includes a movable deflecting element positioned between the first and second port assemblies. The third port assembly includes a third leasing element. The movable deflecting element is so positionable and the third port assembly is so positioned and arranged so that a deflected portion of the first optical signal is deflected from the deflecting element and directed through the third port assembly. The variable transmitted portion of the first optical signal is directed through the second port assembly without being deflected by the deflecting element. The transmitted and deflected portions of the first optical signal are expanded and collimated, while passing through the optical coupler by appropriate positioning of the lensing elements to provide efficient and accurate control of the first optical signal. The movable deflecting element varies the relative splitting of the deflective and transmitted portions of the first optical signal.