Electro-optical device based on electroplating action

摘要

Electrically activated optical switches, couplers, and modulators are disclosed which can be incorporated in waveguide networks in optical communications systems. Disclosed devices comprise an electroplating medium in combination with a suitable source of an electric field whose strength can be varied to cause transition of the electroplating medium between plated and unplated states. Changes of reflectivity and refractive index are the bases of switching and coupling applications, respectively.