Patent ID: 6535664
Filing Date: 2003-03-18
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
An optical routing apparatus for directing an optical signal, the optical routing apparatus comprising:(a) an input port configured to provide the optical signal along an initial straight incident path; (b) a plurality of output ports, each configured to receive the optical signal; and (c) an optical switching arrangement adapted to shift among a plurality of distinct optical configurations, the optical switching arrangement including: (i) a plurality of fixed mirrors, each positioned at a particular angle with respect to the initial straight incident path and each of which is associated with one of the plurality of output ports; and (ii) a rotatable mirror configured to rotate to a plurality of distinct positions, each of which defines an approximately right included angle with a particular fixed mirror, such that the optical signal may be reflected off the rotatable mirror and such particular fixed mirror to direct the optical signal to the output port associated with such particular fixed mirror.