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Abstract

An optical space switch comprising an optical output; three optical deflection stages each having a twisted-nematic liquid crystal polarization rotator responsive to a respective bi-state control signal and a calcite crystal deflection means for selectively deflecting optical signals according to their polarization. The deflection stages are arranged serially to define eight distinct source locations from where an optical signal is selectively deflectable successively by the deflection stages to the optical output. A distinct combination of states of the three control signals corresponds to each location. Each input is formed from an array of fibers so as to be capable of launching an optical signal which is spatially modulated transverse to the signal propagation direction. Each deflection stage preserves the spatial integrity of the deflected optical signals.

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First Claim