Patent ID: 7315663
Filing Date: 2008-01-01
Classification: B82Y,G02B,G02F

Abstract:
1. A photonic crystal switch comprising: a photonic-crystal-based light transmission layer having an input waveguide and at least one branching waveguide in optical communication with the input waveguide, wherein the input waveguide and the at least one branching waveguide are capable of transmitting a light beam whether or not a voltage is applied to the photonic-crystal-based light transmission layer; a liquid crystal positioned within at least a portion of the at least one branching waveguide and having a first configuration that prevents the light beam from propagating from the input waveguide into the at least one branching waveguide; and two or more electrical contacts positioned relative the liquid crystal, wherein applying an appropriate voltage to the two or more electrodes changing the liquid crystal into a second configuration allowing the light beam to propagate from the input waveguide into the at least one branching waveguide.