Patent ID: 6738536
Filing Date: 2004-05-18
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
A wavelength tunable optical filter for optical communications systems, comprising:a compliant support block having a longitudinal axis and a load-receiving surface oriented substantially orthogonal to said longitudinal axis, said load-receiving surface being suitable to receive an applied load in a direction substantially parallel to said longitudinal axis; an optical fiber having at least a section with a fiber Bragg grating written therein disposed in said compliant support block and arranged in a configuration at least partially encircling said longitudinal axis of said compliant support block; and a mechanical assembly having a portion thereof in contact with said load-receiving surface of said compliant support block, wherein said fiber Bragg grating has a variation in refractive index along an axial direction thereof, and wherein said mechanical assembly is adapted to provide a selectable load to said load-receiving surface of said compliant support block to select a reflection characteristic of said fiber Bragg grating out of an adjustable range of reflection characteristics.