Patent ID: 6415080
Filing Date: 2002-07-02
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
A dense wavelength multiplexer/demultiplexer for use in optical communication systems comprising:a multiplex optical waveguide propagating a plurality of optical channels of a select channel spacing multiplexed as a single optical signal within a select near infrared wavelength range; a collimating/focusing optic optically coupled to the multiplex optical waveguide at a focal length; a reflective echelle grating optically coupled to the collimating/focusing optic, the echelle grating comprising a groove spacing of between about 50-300 grooves per millimeter and a blaze angle providing a channel separation between adjacent channels of the multiplexed optical signal at the select focal length for an order of diffraction; and a linear array of optical demultiplex waveguides each propagating a single channel within the near infrared wavelength range, each optical demultiplex waveguide having a center and a propagating end which is optically coupled to the collimating/focusing optic, the propagating ends being spaced the focal length from the collimating/focusing optic and the centers of adjacent demultiplex waveguides being spaced a distance corresponding to a channel separation between corresponding adjacent channels.