Patent ID: 6718085
Filing Date: 2004-04-06
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
A switching element for use along an optical path comprising:a waveguide substrate having at least two optical waveguide segments on a first surface, including first and second waveguide segments having trenches etched so that the ends intersect at a crosspoint, the first and second waveguide segments being in fixed relation and generally parallel to the first surface; a heater substrate joined to the waveguide substrate such that a central heater is positioned within the crosspoint and at least one sidewall heater is positioned at the perimeter of the crosspoint, wherein the sidewall heater is operative to dry the walls during switching operation; the crosspoint having a trench with parallel walls; an array of thermal studs, each stud in direct thermal contact with the sidewall heater and one of the parallel walls of the trench; a plenum interposing the waveguide substrate and the heater substrate; and a liquid disposable within the plenum and the trench, the liquid being responsive to the central heater and the at least one sidewall heater, wherein optical transmission from the first waveguide segment to the second waveguide segment is determined by absence of the liquid within the trench.