Patent ID: 6477290
Filing Date: 2002-11-05
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
In an optical matrix switch having a plurality of cross-points for switching a plurality of information carrying light beams between any one of a plurality of input beams to any one of a plurality of output beams by choosing the appropriate cross-point-of the matrix,each cross-point including an apertured semiconductive substrate fixed at a predetermined and precise angle, each cross-point including a micro electromechanical (MEM) type mirror having a first position where said mirror reflects said selected input beam to provide a selected one output beam and a second position where it provides a path through said apertured substrate path for transmission of said light beam, said cross-point mirror being in the form of a mirrored shutter digitally moveable in a single plane along the surface of said apertured substrate between a first position into said beam path and a second position out of said beam path in a stationary plane at said predetermined and fixed precise angle to said beam path, means for actuating a said selected cross-point mirror to said first position to reflect said input beam to said output beam and for causing the remaining mirrors in the path of such beam remain in the second position to allow through transmission through said apertured substrate.