Patent ID: 6477293
Filing Date: 2002-11-05
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
A multiplexer device for multiplexing a plurality of light beams communicated via a corresponding plurality of ports to form a wavelength-division-multiplexed (WDM) light beam, each of said plurality of light beams comprising a distinct group of wavelengths, the groups having different centre wavelengths, comprising:(i) angular dispersion means for combining a plurality of light beams incident thereupon each at a corresponding one of a plurality of dispersion angles to form a said WDM light beam in said optical path, (ii) a WDM port disposed in said optical path for receiving said WDM light beam from said angular dispersion means; (iii) a plurality of ports disposed in said dispersion plane and so positioned relative to said angular dispersion means as to define a corresponding plurality of optical paths whereby said plurality of light beams from said angular dispersion means are received by said WDM port; and (iv) optics means for spatially-modifying said WDM light beam, or said WDM light beam and each of said plurality of light beams, or each of said plurality of light beams, by refocusing light beam components whose wavelengths are at extremes of the range about the centre wavelengths and defocusing light beam components whose wavelengths are closer to the centre wavelengths so as to achieve a spectral intensity across each port that is substantially flat.