A compact optical cross-connect system using piezo-electric micro actuators.
Japan Society for the Promotion of Science:Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (B)
Date (from‐to) : 2001 -2003
Author : OOHIRA Fumikazu; ISHIMARU Ichirou; HASHIGUCHI Gen; MIHARA Yutaka; KASUGA Masao
This research aims to realize a compact optical cross-connect system for future high-speed optical communication network system.
The results are summarized as follows.
1.System concept : A high-density packaging system concept was proposed based on a free-space and non-matrix type compositions using 2 dimensional array fibers, and the system was constructed.
2.Actuationmethod : Anewactuationmethodsusingultrasonicmotorsbasedonpiezo-electricactuatorsareproposed, which have features such as self-hold, low power consumption, and good controllability. Base on the technology, 2 switching constructions are examined, one is lens actuation method, and the other is reflection mirror actuation method.
3. Fabrication and Evaluation: The mechanical and optical design and simulation are done for the 2 methods, and the proto-type models are fabricated. In the lens actuation method, 2 x 2 switching system was constructed using a SELFOC lens. The optimum parameters are examined to maximize the coupling efficiency. As the results, it was confirmed that the optical coupling was possible by actuating the lens about 1 micron accuracy, and a few dB efficiency was confirmed. In the mirror actuation method, array mirrors are fabricated by the photo-lithographic technologies, and mirror rotation was confirmed experimentally using permanent magnets. The mirror rotating angle accuracy was within 0.1 degrees. Based on the results, the 2 x 2 switching system was constructed and evaluated. The results showed good optical characteristics and good repeatability of the switches.
As described above, a basic technologies based on the piezo-electric actuators are achieved.