Optical cross-connect switch with wedge spacer which supports two parallel one-dimensional arrays of optical fibres

摘要

The optical cross-connect includes a glass wedge 302 which supports first 304 and second 306 one-dimensional collimator arrays on respective faces, so that an angle is formed between the arrays. Each collimator array includes a V-groove array having a set of etched grooves for receiving optical fibers. A MEMS substrate 310, preferably containing micro-mirrors, is attached at a fixed distance from a front end of 308 the glass wedge. The front end of the wedge is covered in a reflective coating for reflecting light from the first and second collimator arrays onto and from the MEMS substrate. Also claimed is a one-dimensional collimator array with a glass block (204, Fig. 2) for holding the fibres in place in their V-grooves, and a top plate (211, Fig. 2) for supporting a lens array.