JPH06258673A - Polarization control type spatial optical switch device - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To adjust the optical path length of the polarization control type spatial optical switch device used for an optical communication network to connect and switch a light signal, to decrease the device scale, and to simplify the manufacture process. CONSTITUTION:This optical switch device is equipped with plural polarized light separators 1a and 1b which are arranged in parallel to incident light and also arranged so that respective polarized light separation planes 1a' and 1b' are parallel, plural polarized light controllers 2a and 2b which are arranged on the incident light sides of the polarized light separators 1a and 1b, and lambda/4 plates 3a and 3b and reflecting members 4a and 4b which are arranged on one of the reflection sides of the respective polarized light separators 1a and 1b at a right angle to passing lights of the polarized light separators 1a and 1b so that the main axis is at 45 deg. to the polarization direction of the incident light.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

(Table of Contents) Industrial Application Field of the Prior Art (FIGS. 23 to 26) Problems to be Solved by the Invention Means for Solving the Problems (FIGS. 1 and 2) Operation (FIGS. 1 and 2) Example (FIGS. 3 to 22) Effect of the invention

[0002]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a polarization control type spatial optical switch device which is installed between a plurality of optical signal transmitting / receiving sections or transmission paths to connect and switch optical signals. 2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, a network using optical communication is required in order to increase the capacity of information handled in the field of communication and information processing and to achieve higher speeds of systems.

[0003]

23, 24, and 25 are conventional polarization control type spatial light switch devices 100, 101 and 102, respectively.
The polarization control type spatial light switch apparatus 100 of FIG. 23 is disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. H03-48829, and the polarization control type spatial light switch apparatus 101 of FIG.
According to Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. H03-200123, the polarization control type spatial optical switch device 102 of FIG.
It was disclosed by the 101716 gazette.

FIG. 26 shows a polarization control type spatial optical switch device 103. This polarization control type spatial multi-stage optical switch 103 is a collection of the 1992 Spring Conference of the Institute of Electronics, Information and Communication Engineers SC-3-7. It has been disclosed by. These polarization control type spatial light switch devices 100, 1
01 and 102 and the polarization control type spatial multi-stage optical switch device 103 are used for inter-device communication in an optical communication network,
The spatially multiplexed optical signal is variably connected between elements and between optical fibers.

The polarization control type spatial optical switch devices 100, 101 and 102 and the polarization control type spatial multi-stage optical switching device 103 are capable of multi-input multi-output.
Furthermore, the input and output directions are the same,
A multi-stage configuration is possible by using a plurality of them. However, these polarization control type spatial optical switch devices 100, 101, 102, 103 all have different configurations, and in the following, the respective polarization control type spatial optical switch devices will be sequentially described.

First, the polarization control type spatial optical switch device 100 shown in FIG. 23 has a polarization separator (polarization beam splitter) 5
0, a λ / 4 plate 52 and a reflection position shifting reflecting mirror 51 which form a first reflecting block 57, a λ / 4 plate 54 and a reflecting mirror 55 which form a second reflecting block 58, and a polarization controller. It is composed of 53 and the like. Here, the polarization splitter 50 has a polarization splitting surface 56 between its one side and the other side at a symmetrical position. Is a horizontally polarized light or a vertically polarized light, and the passage or the 90 ° path is changed.

In this example, the polarization splitting surface 56 of the polarization splitter 50 transmits the horizontally polarized incident light as it is, but changes the 90 ° path of the vertically polarized incident light. I shall. The polarization controllers 3 and 4 are arranged immediately in front of the incident side of the polarization separator 50, and change the vertically polarized component into the horizontally polarized component or the horizontally polarized component into the vertically polarized component for each incident light transmitted. , The polarization state of incident light is freely changed. That is, the polarization controllers 3 and 4 control the polarization of the incident light so that the incident light passes through or is reflected by the polarization separator 50 in a polarization state that allows the polarization separator 50 to pass. In this state, it allows incident light to pass through.

The λ / 4 plates 52 and 54 are polarizing plates arranged so that their optical axes form an angle of 45 ° with respect to the polarization direction of incident light. The reflecting mirror 55 reflects the transmitted light in the opposite direction to the optical path at the time of its incidence, and the reflecting position shifting reflecting mirror 51 is composed of two reflections arranged in a triangular two-sided shape. The mirror reflects the incident light from the polarization separator 50 twice, and emits it to another optical path parallel to the optical path that has been sent.

With the polarization control type spatial optical switch device 100 having such a configuration, as shown in FIG. 23, the polarization state of the light incident as a single polarized light in the horizontal direction or the vertical direction can be changed.
First, the polarization controller 53 determines whether the polarized light passes through the polarized light separator 50 or the polarized light reflected by the polarized light separator 50, thereby selecting an optical path. For example, when the incident light from Y1 is emitted at the position Y1 without shifting the optical path, the polarization controller 53 causes the incident light to be emitted to the polarization separator 50 in a laterally polarized state. As a result, this laterally polarized light passes through the polarization splitting surface 56 and is laterally polarized without undergoing an optical path shift, and is emitted from the position Y1 as in the case of incidence.

Alternatively, when the incident light is shifted from the Y1 position to the Y2 position and emitted, the polarization controller 53 causes the incident light from the Y1 to be vertically polarized in the polarization splitter 5.
Emitted to 0. As described above, since the incident light is controlled to be vertically polarized, it is reflected by the polarization splitting surface 56 of the polarization splitter 50 so as to change its course by 90 °, passes through the λ / 4 plate 52, and is reflected. It is sent to the shift reflecting mirror 51.

Then, the vertically polarized light is subjected to optical path shift by the reflection position shifting reflecting mirror 51 (see arrow b in FIG. 23), and then again passes through the λ / 4 plate 52 to obtain the polarization separator 50.
Sent to. At this time, since the vertically polarized light passes through the λ / 4 plate 52 twice, the polarized light is rotated by 90 ° and becomes horizontal polarized light. For this reason, the light changed to the laterally polarized light is transmitted through the polarization separation surface 56 of the polarization separator 50 without being reflected, unlike when it is incident from the polarization controller 53, and is further passed through the λ / 4 plate 54. It passes and is sent to the reflecting mirror 55.

The light sent to the reflecting mirror 55 is reflected here by the same optical path as when the light enters the reflecting mirror 55, and again λ /
It passes through the four plates 54 and is sent to the polarization separator 50. At this time, since the horizontally polarized light passes through the λ / 4 plate 54 twice,
The polarized light is rotated by 90 ° to become vertical polarized light, and the polarization separator 50
The light is reflected by the polarization splitting surface 56 and is emitted from the position of Y2, unlike when it is incident.

In addition, the polarization control type spatial light switch device 101 of FIG. 24 has a polarization separator 50 and a first reflection block 60.
Of the λ / 4 plate 52 and the optical path changing element (prism) 59, and the second reflection block 61, λ /
The four plates 54 and the reflecting mirror 55, as well as the polarization controller 53 and the like. That is, the polarization control type spatial light switch apparatus 101 uses the optical path changing element 59 instead of the reflection position shifting reflecting mirror 51 of the polarization control type spatial light switch apparatus 100.

Here, the polarization separator 50, the λ / 4 plate 52,
54, polarization controller 53, reflecting mirror 55, optical path changing element 59
Is as described above in the description of the polarization control type spatial optical switch device 100. In this example, the polarization separator 50 used in the polarization control type spatial light switch device 101 is different in arrangement from that of the polarization control type spatial light switch device 100, and is displaced by 90 degrees. The optical path changing element 59 shifts and reflects the incident light to another optical path parallel to the sent optical path.

The polarization control type spatial light switch apparatus 101 having the above-described structure has the same operation as the polarization control type spatial light switch apparatus 100, but the optical path changing element 59 is used for shifting the optical path. Therefore, unlike the reflection-position-shifting reflecting mirror 51, the light at any incident position is emitted with its optical path shifted by a certain amount. Further, the polarization control type spatial light switch apparatus 102 of FIG. 25 is configured to shift the light path by a predetermined amount for each incident position, like the polarization control type spatial light switch apparatus 100 described above.

However, the polarization control type spatial light switch apparatus 102 has a different structure from the polarization control type spatial light switch apparatus 100 as described above. That is, the polarization control type spatial optical switch device 102 is composed of polarization splitters 62-1, 62-2, 62-3, an optical path converter 63 having two reflecting mirrors, a polarization controller 53 and the like. ing.

Here, the polarization controller 53 is as described in the above-mentioned polarization control type spatial light switch devices 100 and 101. Polarization splitters 62-1, 62-2, 62-3
Is the above-mentioned polarization control type spatial optical switch device 100, 101.
The polarization separator 50 is different in size from the polarization separator 50 used in the above, and the polarization separator 62 provided on the output side of the second stage.
Only -3, the arrangement is shifted by 90 degrees.

The optical path changer 63 is composed of two reflecting mirrors arranged in a triangular two-sided shape and a triangular rod-shaped glass rod, and the reflecting position shifting reflecting mirror 51.
In the same manner as the above, the incident light from the polarization splitter 62 is reflected twice and is emitted to another optical path parallel to the optical path sent. With the polarization control type spatial optical switch device 102 having such a configuration, as shown in FIG.
5, when the incident light from Y6 is emitted at the position as it is without optical path shift, the incident light from Y5 is incident on the polarization separator 62-1 in the state of lateral polarization, and also from the incident light from Y6. Is emitted to the polarization separators 62-2 and 62-3.

Then, these lights are emitted from the device in the same manner as in the case of the polarization control type spatial light switch devices 100 and 101, in the same positions as Y5 and Y6 at the time of incidence. Alternatively, when the incident light from Y5 is output after being shifted in the optical path to the position of Y6, the incident light from Y5 is emitted to the polarization separator 62-1 in a vertically polarized state and is reflected here. And sent to the optical path changing device 63 side.

Then, the vertically polarized light is converted into the optical path changer 6.
After being subjected to the optical path shift at 3, the light is sent to the polarization separator 62-3, is reflected because it is vertically polarized light, and is emitted from the position of Y6. Further, when the incident light from Y6 is output after being shifted in the optical path to the position of Y5, the incident light from Y6 is emitted to the polarization separator 62-2 in a vertically polarized state and is reflected there. And is sent to the polarization separator 62-1 side.
Then, the vertically polarized light is reflected by the polarization splitting surface of the polarization splitter 62-1 again, so that the light path is shifted and the light is emitted from the position of Y5.

Further, the polarization control type spatial light switch device 103 of FIG. 26 has a plurality of polarization separators 64 and a glass rod 6.
5 and a polarization controller 53 '. That is,
The polarization control type spatial multi-stage optical switch device 103 is the same as the optical path converter 63 of the polarization control type spatial optical switch device 102.
Is replaced by two polarization splitters 64 facing each other, and a glass rod 65 is provided in the space where the polarization splitter cannot be provided in the spatial optical switch device 102. Further, a plurality of such devices are provided in the light shift direction. They are arranged.

As shown in FIG. 26, the polarization control type spatial light switch apparatus 103 having such a configuration performs the processing of the incident light in the polarization control type spatial light switch apparatus 102 described above for each column. , More light can be processed.

[0023]

However, in the conventional polarization control type spatial optical switch as described above, an element for optical path shift which requires a large space at a position outside the optical path when light is incident. Need to be placed. For this reason, there is a problem that it becomes impossible to reduce the size in the lateral direction with respect to the direction of light incident on the switch.

Further, in such a structure, the beam is shifted in the same direction as the incident light direction to the switch in the optical path shifting element, and the shift amount determines the emission position, so that the light to the switch is changed. There is a problem that it is impossible to reduce the size in the incident direction. In addition, high precision is required in terms of alignment of the element for shifting the optical path, which causes a problem in that mounting is difficult. Further, even when the shape of the element for shifting the optical path is changed to increase the number of inputs, there is a problem that high manufacturing accuracy is required and the manufacturing process becomes difficult.
Further, since the optical path length of the light whose optical path is changed becomes relatively long, the beam spread becomes large. In other words, the diameter of the light beam propagating through the space gradually expands. However, if the optical path length is different, the extent of spread of the light beam also differs. It is necessary to install equipment,
There is a problem that not only the manufacturing process becomes complicated, but also the cost increases.

The present invention was devised in view of the above problems, and enables the optical switch to be miniaturized in each direction, and eliminates the difficulty associated with mounting and manufacturing accuracy.
An object of the present invention is to provide a polarization control type spatial optical switch device capable of shortening the optical path length.

[0026]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the principle of the first invention. In FIG. 1, reference numeral 30 denotes a polarization control type spatial light switch device, and this polarization control type spatial light switch device 30.
Is composed of each member described below. That is,
In the polarization control type spatial light switch device 30, a plurality of polarization splitters 1a and 1b are arranged in parallel with respect to the incident light, and the polarization splitting surfaces 1a ′ and 1b ′ are parallel to each other. It is arranged.

At the same time, in the polarization control type spatial light switch device 30, the polarization controllers 2a and 2b are arranged on the incident light sides of the polarization separators 1a and 1b, respectively. Then, on one of the reflection sides of each of the polarization separators 1a and 1b, the λ / 4 plate is perpendicular to the passing light of the polarization separators 1a and 1b so that the main axis forms 45 ° with the polarization direction of the incident light. 3a, 3
b and the reflecting mirrors 4a and 4b are arranged.

Here, the polarization separators 1a and 1b allow one polarization component of the incident light to pass through the polarization separation surfaces 1a 'and 1b', and reflect the other polarization component orthogonal to this polarization component and output it. It is a thing. The polarization controllers 2a and 2b are
They are arranged on the incident light sides of the polarization splitters 1a and 1b,
According to external control, the polarization direction of the input light is output as it is or after being changed to the orthogonal direction. λ / 4 plate 3
Reference numerals a and 3b denote polarizing plates that convert linearly polarized input light into circularly polarized light or circularly polarized input light into linearly polarized light, and the reflecting members 4a and 4b reflect incident light to the same optical path. (Claim 1).

Further, the polarization control type spatial light switch device 30 is used as a polarization control type spatial light switch unit configured to shift the optical path, and a plurality of these are combined to form a multi-stage polarization control type spatial light switch device. You can also do it. In this case, each polarization control type spatial optical switch unit is provided with a plurality of polarization separators corresponding to each, and these polarization separators are arranged in parallel with respect to the incident light, and each polarization separation device The planes are arranged so that they are parallel to each other. Alternatively, instead of some of these multiple polarization separators, a polarization separator also serving their function is arranged.

At the same time, in each polarization control type spatial light switch unit, a polarization controller is arranged on the incident light side of each polarization separator. Then, on one of the reflection sides of each polarization separator, a λ / 4 plate and a reflection mirror corresponding to each polarization separator pass through the polarization separator so that the main axis and the polarization direction of the incident light form 45 °. It is arranged perpendicular to the light (claims 2 and 3).

FIG. 2 is a principle diagram of the second invention. In FIG. 2, reference numeral 40 denotes a polarization control type spatial optical switch device, and the polarization control type spatial optical switch device 40 is composed of the following members. There is. That is, in the polarization control type spatial optical switch device 40, a plurality of polarization splitters 1a and 1b are arranged in parallel with respect to the incident light, and the polarization splitting surfaces 1a 'and 1b' intersect each other. It is installed in.

At the same time, in the polarization control type spatial optical switch device 40, the polarization controllers 2a and 2b are arranged on the incident light sides of the polarization separators 1a and 1b, respectively.
On one of the reflection sides of a and 1b, the λ / 4 plates 3a and 3b and the reflecting mirror are perpendicular to the light passing through the polarization separators 1a and 1b so that the principal axis forms 45 ° with the polarization direction of the incident light. 4a,
4b is arranged.

Further, between the polarized light separators 1a and 1b where the polarized light separated light comes and goes, the polarized light component changing unit 5 is arranged so that the main axis forms 45 ° with the polarization direction of the incident light.
It is arranged perpendicular to the passing light of 1b. The polarization component changing unit 5 changes one polarization component to the other polarization component or vice versa.
It is composed of one λ / 4 plate (claims 4, 6, 7).

The polarization control type spatial light switch device 4 is also provided.
0 is a polarization control type spatial optical switch unit configured to perform optical path shift, and a plurality of units having different sizes may be combined to form a multi-stage configuration (claim 5). By the way, the polarization control type spatial light switch devices 30 and 40 of the first and second inventions described above are used as first and second polarization control type spatial light switch units configured to perform optical path shift, and by combining these, A polarization control type spatial light switch device having a multi-stage configuration can also be used.

In this case, each polarization control type spatial light switch unit is provided with a plurality of polarization separators corresponding thereto, and these polarization separators are arranged in parallel with respect to the incident light, and respectively. Are arranged so that the polarization separation planes of are parallel or intersecting. The other configurations of the polarization control type spatial light switch units are the same as those of the polarization control type spatial light switch devices 30 and 40 (claim 8).

Further, in each of the spatial light switches and each of the spatial light switch units described above, an optical path length adjusting means 6 for changing the optical path length of the incident light depending on the polarization state of the incident light is provided on one of the input and output sides. There is (claim 9). And
This optical path length adjusting means 6 comprises a polarization separator 1, and further, on each reflection side of this polarization separator 1, the polarization separator 1 is arranged so that the main axis forms an angle of 45 ° with the polarization direction of the incident light. A λ / 4 plate and a reflecting member, which are arranged perpendicular to the transmitted light, are provided (claim 10).

In each of the spatial light switches described above, when a space is generated between the constituent elements, a light transmitting member may be provided in the space (claim 11). Further, as each reflecting member in each of the above-mentioned spatial light switches, a reflecting mirror is used, or a reflecting coating portion 8 formed on each λ / 4 plate or its protective glass is used. (12, 13).

[0038]

In the polarization control type spatial light switch 30 of the first invention described above, the polarization direction of the input light having one polarization component is controlled by the polarization controllers 2a and 2b as shown in FIG. . As a result, the input light is polarized by the polarization splitter 1a,
It passes through the polarization splitting surfaces 1a 'and 1b' of 1b in the same optical path.

By controlling the polarization direction in the polarization controllers 2a and 2b, the input light having the other polarization component is changed to
The optical path is shifted by reflecting the light on the polarization separation surfaces 1a 'and 1b' of the polarization separators 1a and 1b. Alternatively,
The input light reflected by the polarization splitting surfaces 1a ′, 1b ′ of the polarization splitters 1a, 1b is passed through the λ / 4 plates 3a, 3b and the reflecting members 4a, 4b as necessary, and the other polarization The polarized light separating surfaces 1b 'and 1a' of the separators 1b and 1a are reflected to shift the optical path (claim 1).

Further, in the polarization control type spatial light switch device in which the polarization control type spatial light switch device 30 is used as a polarization control type spatial light switch unit and a plurality of the polarization control type spatial light switch units are combined into a multi-stage configuration, the following processing is performed. That is, each of the plurality of polarization control type spatial light switch units controls the polarization direction of the input light having one polarization component by the polarization controller, and passes the polarization separation surface of the polarization separator in the same optical path. Let

At the same time, by controlling the polarization direction in the polarization controller, the input light having the other polarization component is reflected by the polarization splitting surface of the polarization splitter to shift the optical path. Alternatively, the input light reflected by the polarization separation surface of the polarization separator is passed through the λ / 4 plate and the reflecting member as necessary, and reflected by the polarization separation surface of the other polarization separator, The optical path is shifted (claim 2).

In the polarization control type spatial optical switch 40 of the second invention, as shown in FIG. 2, one polarization component is controlled by controlling the polarization direction in the polarization controllers 2a and 2b. The input light having the polarization splitter 1
The polarization splitting surfaces 1a 'and 1b' of a and 1b are allowed to pass through the optical paths as they are. Along with this, the polarization controller 2a,
By controlling the polarization direction in 2b, the input light having the other polarization component is reflected by the polarization splitting surfaces 1a 'and 1b' of the polarization splitters 1a and 1b.

Then, the reflected input light is sent to the polarization component changing section 5 and, by passing therethrough, the polarization component is changed to one polarization component and λ / 4.
It is sent to the plates 3a and 3b and the reflecting members 4a and 4b. After that, this input light is transmitted to the λ / 4 plates 3a and 3b and the reflecting member 4
a and 4b, and the other polarization separator 1b, 1
The light is shifted by being reflected by the polarization splitting surfaces 1b 'and 1a' of a (claim 4).

Further, in the polarization control type spatial light switch device in which the polarization control type spatial light switch device 40 is used as a polarization control type spatial light switch unit and a plurality of the polarization control type spatial light switch units are combined into a multi-stage configuration, the following processing is performed. That is, each of the plurality of polarization control type spatial optical switch units of different sizes controls the polarization direction in the polarization controller so that the input light having one polarization component passes through the polarization splitting surface of the polarization splitter as it is. To pass through.

At the same time, by controlling the polarization direction in the polarization controller, the input light having the other polarization component is reflected by the polarization splitting surface of the polarization splitter. As a result, the input light is sent to the polarization component changing unit 5 and, by passing therethrough, is changed to one polarization component and sent to the λ / 4 plate and the reflecting member. Then, the input light passes through the λ / 4 plate and the reflecting member, and is reflected by the polarization splitting surface of the other polarization splitter to shift the optical path (claim 5).

By the way, the polarization control type spatial light switch devices of the first and second aspects of the invention are used as polarization control type spatial light switch units, respectively, and a combination of these is used in a polarization control type spatial light switch device. Is
The following processing is performed. That is, in the spatial light switch unit constituted by the polarization control type spatial light switch device 30, the polarization direction of the input light having one polarization component is controlled by the polarization controller, and the polarization separators 1a, 1
The polarized light separating surfaces 1a 'and 1b' of b are passed through the optical path as they are.

At the same time, the input light having the other polarization component is controlled by the control of the polarization direction in the polarization controller.
The optical path is shifted by reflecting the light on the polarization separation surfaces 1a 'and 1b' of the polarization separators 1a and 1b. Alternatively,
The input light reflected by the polarization splitting surfaces 1a ′, 1b ′ of the polarization splitters 1a, 1b is passed through the λ / 4 plates 3a, 3b and the reflecting members 4a, 4b as necessary, and the other polarization splitting is performed. The optical path is shifted by reflecting the light on the polarization splitting surfaces 1b 'and 1a' of the containers 1b and 1a.

In the above-mentioned manner, the spatial light switch unit of the polarization control type spatial light switch device 30 uses the polarization control type spatial light switch device 40 in the designated optical path for the transmitted light. Emit to the unit. Alternatively, conversely, the polarization control type spatial light switch device 40
The input light from the spatial light switch unit is processed as described above.

Further, in the spatial light switch unit constituted by the polarization control type spatial light switch device 40, the input light having one polarization component is controlled by the polarization controller to control the polarization direction. The polarization splitting surfaces 1a 'and 1b' are allowed to pass through the optical path as they are. At the same time, by controlling the polarization direction in the polarization controller, the input light having the other polarization component is transmitted to the polarization separator 1
It is reflected by the polarization splitting surfaces 1a 'and 1b' of a and 1b.

After that, by passing through the polarization component changing section 5, the polarization component is converted into one and λ
/ 4 plates 3a, 3b and reflecting members 4a, 4b. Then, the light path is shifted by passing through the λ / 4 plates 3a and 3b and the reflecting members 4a and 4b and reflecting the light by the polarization splitting surfaces 1b 'and 1a' of the other polarization splitters 1b and 1a.

In the above-mentioned manner, the input light from the spatial light switch unit by the polarization control type spatial light switch device 30 is processed as described above. Alternatively, the spatial light switch unit of the polarization control type spatial light switch device 40 emits the transmitted light to the spatial light switch unit of the polarization control type spatial light switch device 30 along a designated optical path (claim). Item 8).

By the way, in the above spatial light switches or spatial light switch units, if the optical path length adjusting means 6 is disposed on either the input or output side,
The optical path length is changed depending on the polarization state of the incident light.
That is, the polarization splitting surface 1'of the polarization splitter 1 of the optical path length adjusting means 6 allows one spatial component of the incident light to pass therethrough, so that the optical path length is obtained by each spatial optical switch or each spatial optical switch unit. Only do it.

The polarization separator 1 of the optical path length adjusting means 6 is
Reflect the other polarization component orthogonal to the previous polarization component,
After passing through the / 4 plate and the reflection member, and then reflected and emitted again, the optical path length of light is added by a predetermined amount (claims 9 and 10).

[0054]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. (A) Description of First Embodiment FIGS. 3 and 4 are schematic diagrams showing a first embodiment of the present invention. In FIGS. 3 and 4, reference numeral 30 denotes a polarization control type spatial light switch device. The optical switch device 30 has the same input and output directions and performs optical path shift with multiple inputs and multiple outputs. That is, the polarization control type spatial optical switch device according to the present embodiment also variably connects the spatially multiplexed optical signals among the devices, between the elements, between the optical fibers, etc. in the optical communication network as in the above-mentioned conventional example. It is used to

The polarization control type spatial light switch device 30.
Is configured by arranging the following members in appropriate places. That is, the polarization control type spatial light switch device 3
At 0, polarization separators 1a and 1b are arranged in parallel to the incident light, and their polarization separation surfaces 1a 'and 1b' are parallel to each other. At the same time, the polarization control type spatial optical switch device 30 includes the polarization separators 1a and 1b.
Polarization controllers 2a and 2b are respectively arranged on the incident light side of. Further, on one of the reflection sides of each of the polarization separators 1a and 1b, the λ / 4 plate 3a is perpendicular to the light passing through the polarization separators 1a and 1b so that the main axis forms 45 ° with the polarization direction of the incident light. , 3b and reflecting mirrors (reflecting members) 4a, 4b are arranged.

Here, the polarization separators 1a and 1b allow one polarization component of the incident light to pass through the polarization separation surfaces 1a 'and 1b', and reflect the other polarization component orthogonal to this polarization component and output it. It is a thing. The polarization separator 1 in this example
The polarization splitting surfaces 1a 'and 1b' of a and 1b pass the horizontally polarized light and reflect the vertically polarized light. The polarization controllers 2a and 2b output the polarization direction of the input light as it is or by changing the polarization direction of the input light to the orthogonal direction according to the external control.
It is composed of a liquid crystal polarization control element that can be rotated by 0 °.

The λ / 4 plates 3a and 3b are arranged perpendicularly to the light passing through the polarization separator 1 so that their principal axes form 45 ° with the polarization direction of the incident light, that is, if the incident light is linearly polarized light. Circularly polarized light is converted into circularly polarized light and then emitted, and the reflection mirrors 4a and 4b reflect incident light to the same optical path. Incidentally, the reflecting mirrors 4a, 4 as reflecting members
Instead of b, the λ / 4 plates 3a, 3b or their protective glass may be provided with a reflective coating to substitute them. Also, in the space created between the spatial optical switch components,
A glass rod (light transmission member) of a size suitable for the space
May be provided.

With such a configuration, as shown in FIG. 3, when the optical path of the input light is not shifted, the input light A1 and A2 having vertical and horizontal polarization components respectively enter the polarization controllers 2a and 2b. When sent, the following processing is performed. That is, the polarization directions of the input lights A1 and A2 are controlled by the polarization controllers 2a and 2b. At this time,
If the input lights A1 and A2 are horizontally polarized, they are passed as they are, and if they are vertically polarized, they are rotated to be horizontally polarized and passed. As a result, the input lights A1 and A2 pass through the polarization splitting surfaces 1a 'and 1b' of the polarization splitters 1a and 1b without changing their optical paths. In addition, these polarization controllers 2a,
2b is individually controlled in advance from the outside.

Further, as shown in FIG. 4, when the optical path of the input light is shifted, the input light A1 ', A2' having either vertical or horizontal polarization components is sent to the polarization controllers 2a, 2b. When it comes, the following processing is performed. That is, the polarization directions of the input lights A1 'and A2' are controlled by the polarization controllers 2a and 2b. At this time, the input lights A1 'and A2' are controlled.
If 2'is the vertically polarized light, it is passed as it is, and if it is the horizontally polarized light, it is rotated to be the vertically polarized light and passed. The polarization controllers 2a and 2b are individually controlled in advance from the outside.

By controlling the polarization directions in the polarization controllers 2a and 2b as described above, the input lights A1 'and A2' are
The vertically polarized light is output to the polarization separators 1a and 1b. Then, the input light A1 ′ sent to the polarization separator 1a
Is reflected by the polarization splitting surface 1a 'to change its course by 90 °, and then the polarization splitting surface 1a of the polarization splitter 1b is further changed.
The optical path is shifted from Y1 to Y2 by being reflected by b ′ and changing the 90 ° path, and is output from the device.

The light A2 'sent to the polarization separator 1b is also used.
Is reflected by the polarization splitting surface 1b 'and the course thereof is changed by 90 ° so that the light passes through the λ / 4 plate 3b and then the reflecting mirror 4
b is reflected and again passes through the λ / 4 plate 3b, and the polarization separator 1
sent back to b. Then, the light A2 'sent back to the polarization separator 1b is different from the above case in that the polarization separation surface 1b' is different.
And further passes through the polarization splitting surface 1a 'of the polarization splitter 1a. Because the light A2 ′ sent back to the polarization separator 1b has passed through the λ / 4 plate 3b twice,
This is because the polarization state is converted from vertical polarization to horizontal polarization. That is, the light A2 'is converted from the vertically polarized light into the circularly polarized light by the λ / 4 plate 3b, is reflected by the reflecting mirror 4b, and the traveling direction of the light is reversed. This is converted into horizontal polarized light by the four plates 3b.

After that, the light A2 'that has passed through the polarization splitting surface 1a' passes through the λ / 4 plate 3a and the reflecting mirror 4a and has the previous λ / 4.
The board 3b and the reflecting mirror 4b are routed in the same manner.
As a result, the light A2 'is vertically polarized and is polarized by the polarization separator 1a.
Then, the light is reflected back by the polarization separation surface 1a 'of the polarization separator 1a and the course of the light is changed by 90 °, so that the optical path is shifted from Y2 to Y1 and output.
In this example, one input and one output are used for each of the polarization controllers 2a and 2b, but a plurality of inputs and outputs may be used. Further, in this example, the polarization splitting surfaces 1a 'and 1b' of the polarization splitters 1a and 1b pass the horizontally polarized light and reflect the vertically polarized light, but they pass the vertically polarized light. Alternatively, the horizontally polarized light may be reflected. Of course, in this case, each of the above-mentioned input lights is controlled by the polarization controllers 2a and 2b to be horizontally polarized if the optical path is shifted and vertically polarized if the optical path is not shifted.

As described above, the polarization control type spatial optical switch device 30 can freely shift the optical path by external control. As a result, the spatial optical switch device 30 realizes variable connection of spatially multiplexed optical signals between devices, devices, optical fibers, etc. in an optical communication network. Further, in each of the above-mentioned polarization control type spatial optical switch devices, the number of polarization controllers is set according to the optical path shift, and as shown in the perspective views of FIGS. Can be increased to a two-dimensional array.

As described above, the polarization separators 1a and 1b, the polarization controllers 2a and 2b, the λ / 4 plates 3a and 3b, and the reflection members 4a and 4b are provided, and the optical path shift is performed on the polarization separators 1a and 1b themselves. By providing a function as an element for the optical path, it is not necessary to dispose an element for optical path shifting which requires a large space. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the size in the lateral direction with respect to the direction of light incident on the switch, and also to reduce the size in the direction of light incident. Further, since the element for shifting the optical path is not used, the difficulties involved in mounting and producing the element are omitted, the manufacturing process is simplified, and the cost is kept low. or,
By applying a reflective coating to the λ / 4 plate or its protective glass, it is possible to reduce the space for the reflecting mirror.

By the way, in the above-mentioned polarization control type spatial light switch device 30, another spatial light switch device 30 is arranged in tandem on the emission side thereof, and each of the spatial light switch devices 30 is arranged. A multi-stage configuration is possible by changing some of the components. Hereinafter, a multistage spatial optical switch configured based on the polarization control type spatial optical switch device 30 will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 5 shows a polarization control type spatial optical switch device having a multistage structure. This multistage spatial light switch device has a 4-input 4-output structure and is equivalent to that shown in FIG. It forms a network. This multi-staged spatial light switch device is configured by arranging a polarization control type spatial light switch unit 30 'on the incident side and arranging a polarization control type spatial light switch unit 31 so as to be arranged in tandem. ing.

This polarization control type spatial light switch unit 3
Reference numeral 0'is a polarization controller 2c used in place of the polarization controllers 2a and 2b of the polarization control type spatial optical switch 30 described above, and has the same configuration in other respects. The polarization control type spatial light switch unit 31 is configured by disposing the following devices in appropriate places. That is, in the polarization control type spatial optical switch unit 31, the polarization separators 1c and 1d are arranged in cascade on the emission side of the polarization separators 1a and 1b of the incident side optical switch unit. 1e and 1f are arranged in series on the emission side of the polarization separators 1c and 1d.

Further, these polarization separators 1c, 1d, 1
In e and 1f, the relative positions of the respective installation locations are spatially displaced with respect to the light emission direction. That is, a space having a length A on one side of each polarization separator is provided between the polarization separators 1c and 1e. Further, the polarization separator 1d and the polarization separator 1f are arranged so as to fill the space with each other by a distance B which is half the length A (see A and B in FIG. 5). In addition, these polarization separators 1
Polarization splitting surfaces 1c ', 1d', 1 of c, 1d, 1e, 1f
e ′ and 1f ′ are all arranged so as to face the same direction.

Further, the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 3
1, on the incident side of the polarization separators 1c and 1d (that is, between the polarization separators 1a and 1b and the polarization separators 1c and 1d),
A polarization controller 2d is arranged. Further, at one of the reflection sides of the polarization separators 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f, λ / is perpendicular to the light passing through each polarization separator so that the main axis forms 45 ° with the polarization direction of the incident light. Four plates 3c and 3d and reflecting mirrors 4c and 4d are arranged.

Here, the polarization separators 1c, 1d, 1e, 1
f is the same as the above-mentioned polarization splitters 1a and 1b, and these polarization splitting surfaces 1c ', 1d', 1e ', 1
f'is similar to that of the polarization separators 1a and 1b, and allows the horizontally polarized light to pass therethrough and changes the course of the vertically polarized light by 90 °. Also, the λ / 4 plates 3c and 3d, the reflecting mirror 4
c and 4d are also the λ / 4 plates 3a and 3b, the reflecting mirror 4a,
4b but with polarization splitters 1c, 1d, 1
The size is enlarged so that all the input light reflected and transmitted from e and 1f can be received.

Then, the polarization controller 2c includes the liquid crystal polarization control elements 7a and 7b for the polarization separator 1a and the polarization separators 1d and 1d in order to adapt to the number of times the incident light is shifted.
The liquid crystal polarization control elements 7c and 7d are provided for 1f. Similarly, in the polarization controller 2d, the liquid crystal polarization control elements 7e and 7f are provided to the polarization separator 1a and the polarization separator 1 to adapt to the number of optical path shifts of the incident light.
Liquid crystal polarization control elements 7g and 7h are provided for b.

These liquid crystal polarization control elements 7a, 7b, 7
The c, 7d, 7e, 7f, 7g, and 7h can be individually controlled to be rotated by 90 ° in accordance with external control, and the polarization state of the incident light can be kept unchanged or 90 ° depending on the individual control. It is possible to rotate and emit. With such a configuration, as shown in FIG. 5, the input light at each of the incident positions Y1 to Y4 is directly subjected to the same procedure as in the polarization control type spatial light switch 30 described above when the optical path is not shifted. Is emitted in the optical path of. That is, by controlling each liquid crystal polarization control element of the polarization controllers 2c and 2d in advance, the polarization direction of the input light is converted into lateral polarization, and the input light is directly reflected by the polarization separation surface of each polarization separator. Pass by the optical path.

When the optical path of the input light is shifted, for example, when the optical path of the input light at the position Y2 is shifted to the position Y4 or Y1, the following processing is performed. That is, the input light from the optical path Y2 is shifted from the optical path Y2 to the optical path Y4 by the incident side polarization control type spatial light switch unit 30 'in the same manner as in the case of the polarization control type spatial light switch 30 described above. .

When the final emission position is the optical path Y4, the liquid crystal polarization control element 7h of the polarization controller 2d of the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 31 on the emission side is used for the input light shifted to the optical path Y4. To control laterally polarized light. As a result, the input light from the liquid crystal polarization control element 7h is finally output in the Y4 optical path without being shifted in the optical path.

Alternatively, when the final emission position is Y1, the input light, which has been subjected to the optical path shift from the optical path Y2 to the optical path Y4 by the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 30 'on the incident side, is subjected to the following processing. receive. That is, the liquid crystal polarization control element 7h of the polarization controller 2d of the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 31 controls the vertical polarization for the optical path shift.

As a result, the light from the liquid crystal polarization control element 7h enters the polarization separator 1d in the vertically polarized state, is changed in its course by 90 ° at the polarization separation surface 1d ', and is transmitted through the λ / 4 plate 3d and the reflecting mirror. Sent to 4d. Then, the light becomes laterally polarized by passing through the λ / 4 plate 3d and the reflecting mirror 4d, is again sent to the polarization splitting surface 1d 'of the polarization splitter 1d, and passes through here.

After passing through the polarization splitting surface 1d ', the horizontally polarized input light passes through between the polarization splitters 1c and 1e,
It is sent to the λ / 4 plate 3c and the reflecting mirror 4c. And λ
/ 4 plate 3c and reflecting mirror 4c to become vertically polarized light,
Again, it is sent to the polarization splitting surface 1d 'of the polarization splitter 1d,
Here, the path is changed by 90 ° and the light is sent to the polarization separation surface 1f ′ of the polarization separator 1f.

The vertically-polarized light sent to the polarization splitting surface 1f 'has its course changed by 90 ° at the polarization splitting surface 1f' to obtain λ /
It is sent to the 4 plate 3d and the reflecting mirror 4d, and after passing therethrough, it becomes laterally polarized light, and then sent again to the polarization separator 1f side.
Again, the light sent to the polarization separator 1f has its polarization component laterally polarized, so the polarization separation surface 1 of the polarization separator 1f
f'and the polarization separation surface 1e 'of the polarization separator 1e.

After passing through the polarization splitting surface 1e ', the horizontally polarized input light becomes vertical polarization via the λ / 4 plate 3c and the reflecting mirror 4c, and again the polarization splitter 1e.
Is transmitted to the polarization splitting surface 1e ′ of the optical path, and the path is changed by 90 °, whereby the optical path is shifted to the incident position of the optical path Y1 and finally output. When the input light at the position Y2 is to be shifted to the position Y3 by the optical path, the polarization control type spatial optical switch unit 30 'on the incident side controls the input light at the optical path Y2 to the lateral polarization, and the optical path Y2 remains unchanged. Is output to the polarization control type spatial light switch 31 side.

Then, the horizontally polarized input light is shifted to the vertically polarized light by the liquid crystal polarization control element 7f of the polarization controller 2d of the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 31 so as to shift the light path to the polarization splitter 1c. Is output. The vertically polarized input light output to the polarization separator 1c is the polarization separator 1c.
After the 90 ° path is changed by the polarization splitting surface 1c ′ of 1 and the 90 ° path is further changed by the polarization splitting surface 1d ′ of the polarization separator 1d, the light is shifted to the optical path Y3.

The vertically polarized light shifted to the optical path Y3 is sent to the polarization separation surface 1f 'of the polarization separator 1f, where 9
0 degree course changed. Then, this vertically polarized light is λ
It becomes laterally polarized light via the / 4 plate 3d and the reflecting mirror 4d,
It is again sent to the polarization separation surface 1f 'of the polarization separator 1f, and this time it passes there. After passing through the polarization splitting surface 1f ′, the horizontally polarized light further passes through the space between the polarization splitting device 1c and the polarization splitting device 1e and is sent to the λ / 4 plate 3c and the reflecting mirror 4c. Then, the λ / 4 plate 3c and the reflecting mirror 4
The light sent to c is again sent to the polarization splitting surface 1f ′ of the polarization splitting device 1f in the vertically polarized state via these. As a result, the path is changed by 90 ° on the polarization splitting surface 1f ', and the optical path is shifted to the emission position of Y3 for final output.

With respect to the input light from the other incident positions Y1, Y3 and Y4 as well, the liquid crystal polarization control elements of the polarization controllers 2c and 2d are controlled so as to be the same as the input light incident from the optical path Y2. In this way, the optical path can be shifted to any exit position. Further, FIG. 6 shows another multi-stage polarization control type spatial optical switch device. This multi-stage polarization control type spatial optical switch device constitutes a Banyan network in the case of 4 inputs and 4 outputs. Is. 20
The equivalent network formed by this is shown.

In this multi-stage polarization control type spatial light switch device, the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 30 'is disposed on the incident side, and the polarization control type spatial light switch units 32 are arranged in tandem. It is configured by being arranged. That is, in this multi-stage polarization control type spatial light switch device, a polarization control type spatial light switch unit 32 is provided instead of the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 31 of the multi-stage spatial light switch device described above. .

This polarization control type spatial light switch unit 3
2 is a polarization control type spatial light switch unit 3 on the incident side.
Instead of the 0'polarization separators 1a and 1b, the polarization separator 1
g, 1h, 1i, 1j are used, and the other parts have the same configuration. These polarization separators 1g, 1h, 1i, 1j are arranged one by one on the emission side of each liquid crystal polarization control element 7e, 7f, 7g, 7h of the polarization controller 2d. , 1h and the polarization separators 1i, 1j are positioned relative to one side of the polarization separators 1g, 1h, 1i, 1j (length B) in the light emission direction.
They are displaced (see FIG. 6B).

Then, the polarization separators 1g, 1h, 1
The i and 1j are similar in configuration to the above-mentioned polarization separators 1a and 1b, but their polarization separation surfaces 1g ', 1h', 1i 'and 1j' are also the same.
Similar to the polarization separators 1a and 1b, the horizontally polarized light is transmitted and the path of the vertically polarized light is changed by 90 °.

With such a configuration, as shown in FIG. 6, when the optical path is not shifted, the input light is polarized by the polarization controllers 2c and 2d as in the case of the polarization control type spatial optical switch unit 31 described above. The light is emitted in the same optical path by being controlled to be horizontally polarized by. Further, when the optical path of the input light is shifted, for example, when the input light at the position of the optical path Y1 is shifted to the position of the optical path Y3, the input light is transmitted by the polarization control type spatial optical switch unit 30 'on the incident side. The input light is shifted from Y1 to Y3 in the same manner as described above.

After that, the light shifted to the optical path Y3 is
Polarization controller 2 of polarization control type spatial light switch unit 32
The liquid crystal polarization control element 7g of d controls the lateral polarization, so that the optical path of Y3 is output as it is. Alternatively, if the input light from the optical path Y1 is shifted to the optical path Y4 and emitted, the liquid crystal polarization control element 7g of the polarization controller 2d controls the vertical polarization. As a result, the light from the optical path of Y3 is changed in its 90 ° path at the polarization separation surface 1i ′ of the polarization separator 1i, and then at the 90 ° path at the polarization separation surface 1j ′ of the polarization separator 1j. It is changed and shifted to the optical path Y4.

When shifting the input light of the optical path Y1 to the optical path Y2, first, the input light is allowed to pass through the optical path as it is in the polarization control type spatial optical switch unit 30 'on the incident side. After that, this light (horizontal polarization) is controlled to be vertically polarized by the liquid crystal polarization control element 7e of the polarization controller 2d of the polarization control type spatial light switch 32. As a result, this light is continuously reflected by the polarization splitter 1g and the polarization splitting surfaces 1g ', 1h' of the polarization splitter 1h, and finally shifted to the optical path of Y2.

When the input light on the optical path Y2 is to be shifted to the position Y1, the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 30 'on the incident side first allows the input light to pass through the optical path as it is. After that, the input light (horizontal polarization) is controlled to be vertically polarized by the liquid crystal polarization control element 7f of the polarization controller 2d of the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 32 and output to the polarization separator 1h.

The vertically polarized light sent to the polarization separator 1h is
By changing the 90 ° course at each polarization splitting surface 1h ', λ / 4
It is sent to the plate 3b and the reflecting mirror 4b. Then, after passing through these, it becomes laterally polarized light, and is again sent to the polarization splitting surface 1h 'of the polarization splitter 1h, and this time passes through it.
After passing through the polarization splitting surface 1h ′, the horizontally polarized light further passes through the polarization splitting surface 1g ′ of the polarization splitter 1g,
To the / 4 plate 3c and the reflecting mirror 4c, and becomes vertical polarized light via these, and again the polarization splitting surface 1 of the polarization splitter 1g.
sent to g '. Then, the optical path Y is changed by changing the 90 ° path at the polarization separation surface 1g ′ of the polarization separator 1g.
It is shifted to 1 for the final output.

When the input light on the optical path Y2 is to be shifted to the optical path Y4 or the optical path Y3, first, the input light is input by the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 30 'on the incident side in the same manner as described above. The optical path is shifted from Y2 to Y4.
After that, the light (vertically polarized light) whose optical path is shifted is converted into the optical path Y4.
Output from the liquid crystal polarization control element 7h of the polarization controller 2d of the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 32,
The light is output as it is on the optical path Y4 by controlling the lateral polarization.

Alternatively, if the light from the optical path Y2 (vertical polarization) is shifted to the optical path Y3 and is emitted, the polarization controller 2
The liquid crystal polarization control element 7h of d controls vertical polarization. Thus, the light incident on the liquid crystal polarization control element 7h on the optical path Y4 is shifted to the optical path Y3 in the same manner as in the case where the light is shifted from the optical path Y2 to the optical path of Y1 and finally the optical path Y3. Is output from.

By the way, other incident positions Y1, Y3, Y4
Also for the input light from the optical path Y2, the liquid crystal polarization control elements of the polarization controllers 2c and 2d are controlled.
The optical path can be shifted to any exit position in the same manner as the input light entered from. Further, as shown in FIG. 7, the polarization control type spatial light switch device of this multi-stage configuration is replaced with the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 32 on the exit side, as shown in FIG.
A multi-stage configuration may be adopted using the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 33. Also in this case, the banyan network is constructed to form the equivalent network as shown in FIG.

This polarization control type spatial light switch unit 3
Reference numeral 3 denotes a polarization control type spatial light switch unit 32 in which the polarization separators 1h and 1i are replaced with a polarization separator 1k having the same configuration as the polarization separators 1a and 1b. The polarization separation surface 1k 'of this polarization separator 1k is arranged so as to face the same direction as the polarization separation surfaces of the other polarization separators.

That is, the polarization separator 1k is replaced with the polarization separator 1h,
Using in place of 1i is similar to providing a glass rod (light transmitting member) in the spaces C and D shown in FIG. Therefore, the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 33 has the same function as the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 32 described above. Further, as shown in FIG. 8, if the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 32 or the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 33 is used on the exit side to form a multi-stage configuration, the polarization control type spatial light switch on the incident side is used. A polarization control type spatial light switch unit 34 may be used instead of the switch unit 30 '. still,
In the example of FIG. 8, the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 33 is arranged on the emission side.

That is, this multi-stage polarization control type spatial optical switch device constitutes a crossover network in the case of four inputs and four outputs, and FIG. 21 shows an equivalent network formed by this. Is. The polarization control type spatial light switch unit 34 is obtained by replacing the polarization separator 1b of the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 30 'with the polarization separators 1m and 1n, and the other configurations are the same. is there.

Then, these polarization separators 1m, 1n
Are spatially displaced from each other by a length B on the light incident (or emission) direction side (see B in FIG. 8). The polarization splitting surfaces 1m 'and 1n' of the polarization splitters 1m and 1n are arranged so as to face the same direction as the polarization splitting surfaces of the other polarization splitters. Also, polarization splitting surface 1
Similarly to the separation surface 1a 'of the polarization separator 1a, m'and 1n' allow the horizontally polarized light to pass therethrough but reflect the vertically polarized light.

The polarization control type spatial light switch unit 34 having such a configuration performs the following processing. In other words, the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 34 controls the input light to be laterally polarized by the polarization controller 2c and outputs the light as it is at the time of incidence when it does not shift the optical path of the input light.
Further, the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 34 has the optical path Y
When shifting the input light of No. 1, the liquid crystal polarization control element 7a of the polarization controller 2c is controlled so that the incident light is output as the vertically polarized light.

As a result, the input light of the optical path Y1 is shifted to the optical path Y4 by changing the path twice by 90 degrees by the polarization separator 1a and the polarization separator 1n, and is shifted to the polarization control type spatial optical switch. It is output to the liquid crystal polarization control element 7h of the polarization controller 2d of the unit 33. Further, the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 34 shifts the input light of the optical path Y2 in the same manner as in the case of the optical path Y1.
To the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 33.
To the liquid crystal polarization control element 7g of the polarization controller 2d.
However, in this case, after changing the course by 90 ° by the polarization separator 1a, the polarization separator 1m is replaced by the polarization separator 1m instead of the polarization separator 1n.
Change the course by 90 degrees and shift.

Further, the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 3
When shifting the input light on the optical path Y3, 4 controls the liquid crystal polarization control element 7c of the polarization controller 2c to output the incident light as vertically polarized light. As a result, the path of the input light on the optical path Y3 is changed by 90 ° by the polarization separator 1m, and λ /
4 to the plate 3b and the reflecting mirror 4b. And λ / 4
By passing through the plate 3b and the reflecting mirror 4b, the light becomes laterally polarized light, is again sent to the polarization separation surface 1m 'of the polarization separator 1m, and passes through this time. After passing through the polarization splitting surface 1m ', the laterally polarized input light further passes through the polarization splitter 1a and is sent to the λ / 4 plate 3a and the reflecting mirror 4a.

Then, it becomes longitudinally polarized light via the λ / 4 plate 3a and the reflecting mirror 4a, and is again sent to the polarization separation surface 1a 'of the polarization separator 1a, where the 90 ° course is changed. As a result, the light is shifted to the optical path Y2 and output to the liquid crystal polarization control element 7f of the polarization controller 2d of the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 33. Further, the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 34 controls the liquid crystal polarization control element 7d of the polarization controller 2c to output the incident light as the vertically polarized light when shifting the input light of the optical path Y4.

As a result, the input light on the optical path Y4 is shifted to the optical path Y1 in the same manner as in the case of shifting the optical path Y3. Of course, in this case, the polarization separators to be routed are the separator 1a and the polarization separator 1n. Since the optical path shift as shown in each of the above descriptions is made by the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 34, the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 32 or the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 33 is provided on the exit side thereof. As a result, the input light of each optical path can be freely shifted to another optical path and output in the same direction. As a result, with multiple inputs and multiple outputs,
In addition, it functions as an optical path changeover switch that is multi-staged and capable of shifting the optical path by several steps.

In this example, the polarization splitting surface of the polarization splitter passes the horizontally polarized light and reflects the vertically polarized light. However, the vertically polarized light is passed and the horizontally polarized light is passed through. May be reflected. Of course, in this case, each of the above-mentioned input lights is controlled by the polarization controller to be horizontally polarized if the optical path is shifted and vertically polarized if the optical path is not shifted.

According to the procedure described above, FIG.
In each of the polarization control type spatial light switch devices having the multistage structure of 6, 7 and 8, the output destination of the input light sent to the specific optical path can be freely shifted by the external control.
As a result, these multi-stage spatial light switch devices are
In an optical communication network, a highly variable connection of spatially multiplexed optical signals is realized between devices, elements, optical fibers, and the like.

Although the spaces generated between the constituent elements of the spatial light switch devices of FIGS. 5, 6, 7 and 8 are left as they are, glass rods of a size corresponding to the spaces may be provided. Further, in each of the spatial light switch devices described above, one input and one output are provided for each liquid crystal polarization control element of each polarization controller, but a plurality of inputs and outputs may be used. or,
The polarization control type spatial light switch devices of FIGS. 5, 6, 7 and 8 have the number of polarization controllers according to the optical path shift, and as shown in the perspective views of FIGS. It is also possible to increase the number in the vertical direction with respect to to form a two-dimensional array.

Incidentally, L and L'in FIGS. 9 and 10 are reflecting mirrors, M and
M'is a polarization controller, N, N'is a liquid crystal polarization control element, P,
P ′ is a λ / 4 plate, Q and Q ′ are polarization separators, R and R ′ are polarization separation surfaces of the polarization separators Q and Q ′, and S is a glass rod. In this way, the polarization separator itself is provided with a plurality of polarization control type spatial optical switch units configured to perform optical path shift, and by combining these polarization control type spatial optical switch units, a multi-stage configuration is provided.
Even in the case of a multi-stage spatial optical switch device, it is not necessary to dispose an optical path shifting element that requires a large space. For this reason, the optical switch can be downsized, the difficulties involved in mounting and producing the element can be eliminated, the manufacturing process can be simplified, and the cost can be kept low.

Further, each of the above-mentioned spatial optical switch devices has a λ /
By providing a reflective coating on the four plates or its protective glass, the reflective mirror may be used in place of the reflective mirror, whereby the space for the reflective mirror can be reduced, and as a result, the optical path shift side of the optical switch itself can be reduced. It is possible to significantly reduce the space. Furthermore, various network configurations such as a banyan network and a crossover network can be realized.

Incidentally, FIGS. 11 and 12 show an optical path length adjusting device (optical path length adjusting means) 6, and this optical path length adjusting device 6 is shown in FIGS. 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 described above. It is arranged on the output side of each of the polarization control type spatial light switch devices, and is used when the difference in the optical path length of each light emitted from the spatial light switch device is made equal or reduced. Incidentally, FIG.
Reference numeral 3 is a device in which two optical path length adjusting devices 6 are arranged on the output side of the polarization control type spatial light switch device 30.

The optical path length adjusting device 6 has a polarization separator 1 arranged to receive incident light, and a main axis on each reflection side of the polarization separator 1 forms 45 ° with the polarization direction of the incident light. Λ / 4 arranged perpendicularly to the light passing through the polarization separator 1,
It is composed of plates 3a and 3b and reflecting mirrors 4a and 4b. The polarization splitting surface 1'of the polarization splitter 1 allows the vertically polarized input light to pass therethrough and reflects the horizontally polarized input light. Also, the polarization separator 1, the λ / 4 plates 3a, 3
b, the relative distance between the reflecting mirrors 4a, 4b is determined by the installed polarization control type spatial light switch device, that is,
The spatial optical switch device has an equal relationship with the difference between the optical path length of the light path-shifted light and the optical path length of the unshifted light.

With the optical path length adjusting device 6 having such a configuration, the optical path length of the incident light is changed depending on the polarization state of the incident light, and the optical path length of the outgoing light that has not been optical path shifted is equal to that of the outgoing light that has been optical path shifted. Become. That is, when vertically polarized light is incident on the polarization separator 1, the input light is transmitted as it is as shown in FIG. 11, but when horizontally polarized light is incident, as shown in FIG. The input light is reflected by the polarization splitting surface 1 '.

The light reflected by the polarization splitting surface 1'is λ
It becomes vertically polarized light via the / 4 plate 3b and the reflecting mirror 4b, and is incident on the polarization separator again.
The light passes through the polarization separator 1 as it is and enters the λ / 4 plate 3a and the reflecting mirror 4a. Then, by passing through the λ / 4 plate 3a and the reflecting mirror 4a, the light is laterally polarized, reflected again by the polarization splitting surface 1'of the polarization splitter 1, and emitted outside the device.

Therefore, only the horizontally polarized light transmitted from each of the above polarization control type spatial light switch devices is reflected by each reflecting mirror 4.
The distance optical path length between a and 4b is added and then output. Therefore, whether the incident polarized light is vertical polarized light or horizontal polarized light, the light is emitted to the same position, but the optical path length differs depending on the polarization state of the incident polarized light. Also, the horizontally polarized outgoing light from each of the above-mentioned polarization control type spatial light switch devices has not been subjected to the shift processing because it has been subjected to the light path processing in the polarization state of the horizontally polarized light by the polarization controller, and the vertically polarized light with the light path shifted. The optical path length is shorter than that of the emitted light.

As described above, only the laterally polarized light is output with the distance optical path length between the reflecting mirrors 4a and 4b added, and as a result, the optical path length of the light that has not been subjected to the shift processing and the optical path The optical path length of the shifted light becomes equal.
The optical path length adjusting device 6 may be arranged on the input side of each polarization control type spatial optical switch device by disposing a polarization controller for each input light on the incident side of the polarization separator 1. It is possible. Further, the optical path length adjusting device 6 can also be formed into a two-dimensional array like the above-mentioned polarization control type spatial optical switch device. Further, like each polarization control type spatial light switch device described above, a reflection coating may be applied to the λ / 4 plate or its protective glass to replace the reflection mirror.

As described above, the relative positions of the polarization controller 1, the λ / 4 plates 3c and 3d, and the reflecting members 4c and 4d are adjusted so as to adjust the optical path difference between the light that has undergone the optical path shift and the light that does not. Although the position has been determined, it is also possible to arrange so as to adjust the optical path difference between the light beams that have undergone the optical path shift. As described above, since the optical path length adjusting device 6 including the polarization separator 1, the λ / 4 plates 3c and 3d, and the reflecting members 4c and 4d is provided on one of the input and output sides of the spatial light switch, the optical path is adjusted. It is possible to eliminate or reduce the optical path difference between the shifted light and the other light, or the optical path difference between the light that has undergone the optical path shift and the other light.

The polarization control type spatial optical switch device is often required to synchronize the optical signals when handling the optical signals in parallel, but due to the above-mentioned effect, the optical path difference occurs. Since it is possible to eliminate or reduce the shift between the optical signals, it becomes possible to synchronize the optical signals. Further, it is possible to prevent the difference in the spread degree of the light beam caused by the difference in the optical path difference in the light receiving section. For this reason, it is not necessary to use special equipment for efficiently receiving the light in the light receiving section, and the manufacturing process can be simplified.

(B) Description of Second Embodiment FIGS. 14 and 15 are schematic views showing a second embodiment of the present invention.
14 and 15, reference numeral 40 denotes a polarization control type spatial light switch device, which is a polarization control type spatial light switch device 40.
Is capable of performing optical path shift with multiple inputs and multiple outputs in the same input / output direction.

This polarization control type spatial light switch device 40.
Is configured by arranging the following members in appropriate places. That is, in the polarization control type spatial optical switch device 40, the polarization splitters 1a and 1b are arranged in parallel with the incident light and in the directions in which the respective polarization splitting surfaces 1a 'and 1b' intersect. There is. At the same time, the polarization control type spatial light switch device 40 includes the polarization separators 1a and 1b.
The polarization controllers 2a and 2b are arranged on the incident light side of the polarization separators, and one of the reflection sides of each of the polarization separators 1a and 1b is arranged such that the main axis forms 45 ° with the polarization direction of the incident light. 1
The λ / 4 plates 3a and 3b are perpendicular to the transmitted light of a and 1b.
And reflecting mirrors (reflecting members) 4a and 4b are arranged.

Further, the λ / 2 plate 5 '(polarization component changing section 5) is arranged between the polarization separators 1a and 1b through which the polarized light is separated so that the main axis forms an angle of 45 ° with the polarization direction of the incident light. In addition, they are arranged perpendicularly to the light passing through the polarization separators 1a and 1b. The λ / 2 plate 5'changes the polarization component from the vertically polarized light to the horizontally polarized light or vice versa when light passes therethrough. With respect to each of the other devices, it has already been described in the above. As I did. Λ /
Instead of the two plates 5 ′, two λ / 4 plates may be used.
With such a configuration, as shown in FIG. 14, when the optical path shift of the input light is not performed, the input lights A1 and A2 having polarization components in either the vertical direction or the horizontal direction are input to the polarization controller 2.
When sent to a and 2b, the same processing as in the case of the polarization control type spatial optical switch device 30 described above is performed.

That is, the polarization directions of the input lights A1 and A2 are controlled by the polarization controllers 2a and 2b. At this time, if the input lights A1 and A2 are laterally polarized light, they are allowed to pass in the same polarization state. If it is vertically polarized light, it is rotated to be horizontally polarized light and passed. As a result, the input light A1, A2
Is the polarization splitting surfaces 1a ', 1b' of the polarization splitters 1a, 1b.
Through the same optical path.

Further, as shown in FIG. 15, when the optical path of the input light is shifted, the input light A1 ', A2' having either vertical or horizontal polarization components is changed to the polarization controllers 2a, 2b.
When sent to, the following processing is performed. That is, the polarization directions of the input light A1 ', A2' are controlled by the polarization controllers 2a, 2b. At this time, the input light A1 ',
If A2 'is vertically polarized light, it is transmitted as it is, and if it is horizontally polarized light, it is rotated to vertically polarized light and passed.

By controlling the polarization directions in the polarization controllers 2a and 2b as described above, the input lights A1 'and A2' are
The vertically polarized light is output to the polarization separators 1a and 1b. Then, the input light A1 ′ sent to the polarization separator 1a
Is reflected by the polarization splitting surface 1a 'and travels 90
After being changed, the light passes through the λ / 2 plate 5 ', and during this passage, the λ / 2 plate 5'changes the vertical polarization to the horizontal polarization.

In this way, in the state of horizontal polarization, the light A1 'is sent to the polarization splitting surface 1b' of the polarization splitter 1b, passes therethrough because it is horizontal polarization, and is reflected by the λ / 4 plate 3b and the reflection. It is sent to the mirror 4b. Then, the light A1 ′ passes through the λ / 4 plate 3b, is reflected by the reflecting mirror 4b, and is again reflected by λ.
It passes through the / 4 plate 3b and is sent back to the polarization separator 1b.
In this way, the light A1 ′ sent back to the polarization separator 1b
Has passed through the λ / 4 plate 3b twice, its polarization state is converted from horizontal polarization to vertical polarization.

Since the light A1 'sent back to the polarization separator 1b is changed to the vertically polarized light, unlike the previous case, it is reflected by the polarization separation surface 1b' and finally emitted from the emission position of the optical path Y2. Will be output to. Of course, for the input light of A2 'on the optical path Y2, the polarization control type spatial optical switch device 40 shifts the optical path from Y2 to Y1 and outputs it from the device in the same manner as in the case of A1' on the optical path Y1. To do. In this example, the polarization splitting surface of the polarization splitter is configured to pass the horizontally polarized light and reflect the vertically polarized light, but to pass the vertically polarized light and reflect the horizontally polarized light. It doesn't matter. Of course, in this case, each of the above-mentioned input lights is controlled by the polarization controller to be horizontally polarized if the optical path is shifted and vertically polarized if the optical path is not shifted.

As described above, the polarization control type spatial optical switch device 40 can freely shift the optical path by external control. As a result, the spatial optical switch device 40 realizes variable connection of spatially multiplexed optical signals between devices, devices, optical fibers, etc. in an optical communication network. Incidentally, FIG.
As shown in FIG. 17, a polarization control type spatial light switch device 40
, The polarization splitting surfaces 1a ′ of the polarization splitters 1a and 1b,
Even if the direction of 1b 'is reversed, the order in which light passes through each device is different, but basically the processing as an optical switch is performed in the same manner as in the above case.

As described above, the polarization separators 1a and 1b, the polarization controllers 2a and 2b, the λ / 4 plates 3a and 3b, the reflecting mirror 4a, which are arranged in the direction in which the polarization separation surfaces 1a 'and 1b' intersect with each other,
4b eliminates the need for disposing an element for optical path shifting, which requires a large space. For this reason, the optical switch itself can be downsized, the manufacturing process can be simplified, and the cost can be kept low. Furthermore, by applying a reflective coating to the λ / 4 plate or its protective glass, it is possible to replace the reflective mirror. As a result, the space for the reflecting mirror can be reduced, and as a result, the space on the optical path shift side of the optical switch itself can be significantly reduced.

Further, by using two λ / 4 plates as the polarization component changing section instead of the λ / 2 plate 5 ′, the optical switch has two completely equivalent two component groups (one polarization separator, a polarization separator). It can be configured with one controller, two λ / 4 plates, and one reflecting mirror). By the way, the above-mentioned polarization control type spatial light switch device 40 has the spatial light switch device 4 on the exit side thereof.
It is possible to realize a multi-stage configuration by arranging the miniaturized 0s in a row and changing some of the components of each spatial optical switch device.

A multi-stage spatial light switch constructed based on the polarization control type spatial light switch device 40 will be described below with reference to FIG. The multi-stage polarization control type spatial optical switch device shown in FIG. 18 constitutes a crossover network in the case of four inputs and four outputs. Note that FIG. 21 shows an equivalent network formed by this.

In this multistage spatial light switch device, a polarization control type spatial light switch unit 40 'is disposed on the incident side, and each of the polarization separators 1a and 1b is provided with a polarization control type spatial light switch unit 40'.
A polarization control type spatial light switch unit 41 is arranged so as to be in tandem on the output side. This polarization control type spatial light switch 40 ′ includes a polarization control device 2 including liquid crystal polarization control elements 7 i, 7 j, 7 k and 7 m instead of the polarization control devices 2 a and 2 b of the polarization control type spatial light switch 40 described above.
e and 2f are used, and other configurations are the same.

The polarization control type spatial light switch unit 41 includes the polarization separators 1m, 1n and the polarization controllers 2g, 2n.
h, λ / 4 plate 3e, 3f, reflecting mirrors 4e, 4f, λ / 2 plate 5 ″, and these devices are arranged in the same manner as in the polarization control type spatial optical switch device 40 ′. Has been done. However, the polarization separators 1m and 1n are the liquid crystal polarization control elements 7n, 7p and 7 of the polarization controllers 2g and 2h.
One is arranged on each of the emission sides of q and 7r.

Here, the polarization separators 1m and 1n have the same configuration as that of the polarization separators 1a and 1b, but their sizes are the same.
Similarly to the polarization separators 1a and 1b, the reference numeral 1'n allows the horizontally polarized light to pass therethrough and reflects the vertically polarized light to change the course by 90 °. The polarization controllers 2g and 2h are
As described above, the liquid crystal polarization control elements 7i, 7j, 7
It is composed of k, 7m, 7n, 7p, 7q and 7r.
These liquid crystal polarization control elements are the liquid crystal polarization control elements 7 described in the above-mentioned polarization control type spatial optical switch device of each multi-stage configuration.
a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 7e, 7f, 7g, 7h. That is, each of them can be rotated by 90 ° by individual control from the outside.

Further, the λ / 4 plates 3e, 3f, the reflecting mirrors 4e, 4
The f and λ / 2 plates 5 ″ are similar to the λ / 4 plates 3a and 3b, the reflecting mirrors 4a and 4b, and the λ / 2 plate 5 ′ described above,
A size corresponding to the polarization separators 1m and 1n is adopted. The polarization control type spatial light switch unit 40 '
Is a polarization component changing unit instead of the λ / 2 plate 5 ', and
One λ / 4 plate may be used. This also applies to the λ / 2 plate 5 ″ of the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 41.

With such a configuration, each input light is transmitted to the polarization controller 2 of the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 40 '.
The liquid crystal polarization control elements 7i, 7j, 7k, and 7m of e and 2f control the polarization direction. After that, these input lights are subjected to optical path processing in the same manner as in the case of the polarization control type spatial light switch device 40 described above, and are emitted to the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 41.

The respective spatial light switch units 41 which have received the respective lights from the spatial light switch unit 40 'also have the respective liquid crystal polarization control elements 7n, 7p, 7q, of the polarization controllers 2g, 2h.
The polarization direction of each light is controlled by 7r. Then, the respective lights whose polarization directions are controlled are the polarization splitters 1m and 1n of the polarization control type spatial light switch unit 41, the λ / 4 plate 3e,
The optical path processing is performed by the 3f and the reflecting mirrors 4e, 4f in the same manner as in the case of the polarization control type spatial optical switch device 40 described above, and the optical path is shifted to the target optical path and output from the device. As a result, the optical path can be freely shifted by controlling the polarization controllers 2e, 2f, 2g, 2h. As a result, the optical path selector switch has multiple inputs and multiple outputs, and can be configured in multiple stages to shift the optical paths in several stages.

In this example, one input and one output are provided for each liquid crystal polarization control element of each polarization controller, but a plurality of inputs and outputs may be used. As a result, these multi-staged spatial optical switch devices are used in optical communication networks such as between devices, between elements, between optical fibers, etc.
It realizes highly variable connection of spatially multiplexed optical signals. Although the spaces generated between the respective spatial optical switch constituent elements in FIGS. 14, 15, 16, 17, and 18 are left as they are, glass rods having a size corresponding to the spaces may be provided. Further, these polarization control type spatial light switch devices can be formed into a two-dimensional array in the same manner as the polarization control type spatial light switch devices of the first embodiment.
Further, also in such each polarization control type spatial optical switch device, the optical path length can be adjusted by using the optical path length adjusting device 6.

As described above, a plurality of polarization control type spatial optical switch units of different sizes having the polarization splitters arranged in the directions in which the respective polarization separating planes intersect are provided, and these polarization control type spatial optical switch units are provided. By combining them to form a multistage structure, it is not necessary to dispose an optical path shifting element which requires a large space. Therefore, the size of the optical switch can be reduced, the manufacturing process can be simplified, and the cost can be kept low.

Furthermore, a reflection coating may be applied to the λ / 4 plate or its protective glass to replace the reflection mirror, whereby the space for the reflection mirror can be reduced and, as a result, the optical switch. It is possible to significantly reduce the space on the side of the optical path shift of itself.
Also, instead of the λ / 2 plate 5 ′, a polarization component changing unit
By using one λ / 4 plate, the optical switch unit can be composed of two completely equivalent component groups.
Also, as a network configuration, a crossover network or the like can be realized.

(C) Description of Third Embodiment FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram showing a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 19 shows a polarization control type spatial optical switch device having a multi-stage structure.
This multi-stage spatial light switch includes a polarization control type spatial light switch unit 30 ″ arranged on the entrance side and a polarization control type spatial light switch unit 40 ′ arranged on the exit side.
And are arranged. This multi-stage spatial light switch device is of a 4-input 4-output type.
It forms an equivalent network as shown in.

Further, the spatial light switch unit 30 ″ is
The polarization separators 1a and 1b and the polarization controller 2c of the above-mentioned polarization control type spatial light switch unit 30 'are simply provided with a gap corresponding to the λ / 2 plate 5'of the spatial light switch unit 40'. The polarization controller provided with such a gap is referred to as a polarization controller 2c '. Due to the multi-stage configuration of the spatial light switch units 30 ″ and 40 ′, each input light is first transmitted to the spatial light switch unit 3
By the polarization control of the 0 ″ polarization controller 2c ′, the optical path processing is performed in the same manner as the case of the polarization control type spatial optical switch device 30 described above.

After that, each light is emitted to the spatial light switch unit 40 ', where the polarization control of the polarization controllers 2e and 2f controls the light in the same manner as in the case of the polarization control type spatial light switch device 40 described above. Then, the optical path processing is performed, the optical path is shifted to the target optical path, and the light is output from the device. As a result,
This is an optical path changeover switch that has multiple inputs and multiple outputs, and can be shifted in multiple stages to shift the optical path in several stages.

In this example, one input and one output are used for each liquid crystal polarization control element of each polarization controller, but a plurality of inputs and outputs may be used. As a result, these multi-stage spatial optical switch devices highly realize variable connection of spatially multiplexed optical signals between devices, elements, optical fibers, etc. in an optical communication network. Of. Although the space generated between the spatial optical switch components is left as it is, a glass rod having a size corresponding to the space may be provided. Further, this polarization control type spatial light switch device can be formed into a two-dimensional array in the same manner as each polarization control type spatial light switch device of the first embodiment. Further, also in such a polarization control type spatial optical switch device, the optical path length can be adjusted by using the optical path length adjusting device 6.

In this way, each polarization splitting surface 1a ', 1b' is
Polarization separators 1a and 1b arranged so that they are parallel to each other.
A polarization control type spatial light switch unit 30 '' consisting of
And a polarization control type spatial optical switch unit 40 'composed of the polarization separators 1a and 1b arranged in the direction in which the polarization separation surfaces 1a' and 1b 'intersect with each other to form a multi-stage structure, thereby providing a large space. It is not necessary to dispose an element for optical path shifting, which requires the above, which simplifies the manufacturing process and keeps the cost low. Further, the flexibility of the network configuration can be expanded.

Further, a reflection coating may be applied to the λ / 4 plate or its protective glass to replace the reflection mirror, whereby the space for the reflection mirror can be reduced and, as a result, the optical switch. It is possible to significantly reduce the space on the side of the optical path shift of itself.

[0143]

As described above in detail, according to the polarization control type spatial optical switch device of the first invention, the polarization control surfaces are arranged in parallel with each other with respect to the incident light and the respective polarization separation surfaces are parallel to each other. A plurality of polarization separators, each of which transmits one polarization component of the incident light by a polarization splitting surface, reflects the other polarization component orthogonal to this polarization component, and outputs the same. And a plurality of polarization controllers that respectively output the polarization direction of the input light according to external control and change the polarization direction as it is or in the orthogonal direction, and on one of the reflection sides of each polarization separator, the main axis of the incident light Λ / 4 arranged perpendicularly to the light passing through the polarization splitter so as to form 45 ° with the polarization direction
A plate and a reflecting mirror as a reflecting member that reflects incident light to the same optical path, and controls the polarization direction of the input light having one polarization component by a polarization controller, and the polarization separation surface of the polarization separator. While passing through the optical path as it is,
By controlling the polarization direction in the polarization controller, the input light having the other polarization component is reflected by the polarization splitting surface of the polarization splitter, and passes through the λ / 4 plate and the reflecting member as necessary, and the other Since it is configured to shift the optical path by reflecting on the polarization splitting surfaces of the polarization splitters 1b and 1a, there is an advantage that a small multi-input multi-output optical switch that can be two-dimensionally arrayed can be easily configured. (Claims 1 and 12).

Further, the polarized light splitting surfaces are arranged in parallel with respect to the incident light, and the polarization splitting surfaces are arranged in parallel with each other. A plurality of polarization separators that reflect and output the other polarization component that is orthogonal to and are arranged respectively on the incident light side of the polarization separator, and change the polarization direction of the input light as it is or in the orthogonal direction according to external control. A plurality of polarization controllers for outputting the light and the one of the reflection sides of the respective polarization separators are arranged perpendicular to the light passing through the polarization separators so that the principal axis forms 45 ° with the polarization direction of the incident light. A λ / 4 plate and a reflecting mirror as a reflecting member that reflects incident light to the same optical path are provided, and the polarization direction of the input light having one polarization component is controlled by a polarization controller, and Passes through the polarization splitting surface without changing the optical path. In addition, by controlling the polarization direction in the polarization controller, the input light having the other polarization component is reflected by the polarization separation surface of the polarization separator, and if necessary, passes through the λ / 4 plate and the reflection member, It has multiple polarization control type spatial light switch units that are configured to shift the optical path by reflecting on the polarization splitting surface of the other polarization splitter, and these polarization control type spatial light switch units are combined to form a multi-stage configuration. As a result, a compact multi-input multi-output optical switch that can be formed into a two-dimensional array and that has a multi-stage configuration can be easily configured. In addition, there is an advantage that various network configurations, such as a banyan network and a crossover network, can be realized (claims 2 and 12).

Then, some of the plurality of polarization separators are
By comprising one polarization separator that also has the function of each polarization separator, the degree of freedom in producing the optical switch is increased, and the manufacturing process can be simplified (claim 3). Further, according to the polarization control type spatial optical switch device of the second invention, the polarization separation surfaces are arranged in parallel with each other, and the polarization separation surfaces are arranged in a direction intersecting with each other. A plurality of polarization separators that pass one polarized light component and reflect the other polarized light component that is orthogonal to this polarized light component and output it, and are arranged on the incident light side of the polarized light separators respectively and input according to external control. A polarization controller that outputs the light by changing the polarization direction of the light as it is or by changing it in the orthogonal direction, and polarization separation so that the main axis is at 45 ° with the polarization direction of the incident light on one of the reflection sides of each polarization separator. A λ / 4 plate arranged perpendicularly to the light passing through the optical axis and a reflecting mirror as a reflecting member for reflecting the incident light in the same optical path, and the main axis is provided between the polarization separators where the polarization separated light travels. Is 45 ° with the polarization direction of the incident light And a polarization component changing unit composed of a λ / 2 plate, which is arranged perpendicularly to the light passing through the polarization separator and changes from one polarization component to the other polarization component or vice versa, and polarization control is performed. The input light having one polarization component is
The polarization splitting surface of the polarization splitter is allowed to pass through the optical path as it is, and the polarization direction is controlled by the polarization controller so that the input light having the other polarization component is reflected by the polarization splitting surface of the polarization splitter, and the polarization component changing unit After passing through,
By passing the light through the λ / 4 plate and the reflection member and reflecting the light on the polarization separation surface of the other polarization separator 1b, 1a,
Since the optical path is configured to be shifted, there is an advantage that a compact multi-input multi-output optical switch that can be formed into a two-dimensional array can be easily constructed (claims 4, 6 and 12).

Further, they are arranged in parallel with respect to the incident light, and are arranged in the directions in which the respective polarization separation surfaces intersect with each other, and one polarization component of the incident light is passed by the respective polarization separation surfaces,
A plurality of polarization separators that reflect and output the other polarization component that is orthogonal to this polarization component, and are disposed on the incident light side of the polarization separator, respectively, and the polarization direction of the input light can be the same or orthogonal depending on external control. Direction of the polarized light, and one of the polarization sides of each of the polarized light separators, which has a principal axis perpendicular to the light passing through the polarized light separator so that its main axis forms 45 ° with the polarization direction of the incident light. It has a λ / 4 plate arranged and a reflecting mirror as a reflecting member that reflects the incident light in the same optical path, and the main axis is between the polarization direction of the incident light and the polarization direction of 45 ° between the polarization separators where the polarization separated light travels. And a polarization component changing section composed of a λ / 2 plate, which is arranged perpendicular to the light passing through the polarization separator to change from one polarization component to the other polarization component or vice versa. , For controlling the polarization direction in the polarization controller Thus, while allowing the input light having one polarization component to pass through the polarization separation surface of the polarization splitter as it is, the input light having the other polarization component is polarized and separated by controlling the polarization direction in the polarization controller. Optical path shift by reflecting on the polarization splitting surface of the other polarization splitter, passing through the polarization component changing part, and then passing through the λ / 4 plate and the reflecting member and reflected on the polarization splitting surface of the other polarization splitter. The polarization control type spatial light switch units of different sizes are configured to perform the above, and by combining these polarization control type spatial light switch units into a multi-stage configuration, a small multi-dimensional array that can be formed into a two-dimensional array is provided. An optical switch with multiple inputs and multiple stages can be easily constructed. Further, there is an advantage that a crossover network or the like can be realized as a network configuration (claims 5 and 6).

Further, the polarization component changing section of each polarization control type spatial optical switch device, which is arranged so that the polarization separation planes of the above-mentioned polarization separator intersect, is composed of two λ / 4 plates. Thus, the spatial light switch device and the spatial light switch unit can be configured by two completely equivalent two component groups (claims 7 and 12). Further, according to the polarization control type spatial light switch device of the third invention, the polarization control surfaces are arranged in parallel with respect to the incident light, and the polarization separation surfaces are arranged in parallel with each other. A plurality of polarization separators that pass one polarization component of the incident light and reflect the other polarization component orthogonal to this polarization component and output it, and are arranged on the incident light side of the polarization separator, respectively, depending on the external control. A plurality of polarization controllers that output the polarization direction of the input light as it is or in the orthogonal direction, and one of the reflection sides of each polarization separator, so that the main axis forms a 45 ° angle with the polarization direction of the incident light. Λ / 4 arranged perpendicular to the light passing through the polarization splitter
A plate and a reflecting mirror as a reflecting member that reflects incident light to the same optical path, and controls the polarization direction of the input light having one polarization component by a polarization controller, and the polarization separation surface of the polarization separator. While passing through the optical path as it is,
By controlling the polarization direction in the polarization controller, the input light having the other polarization component is reflected by the polarization splitting surface of the polarization splitter, and passes through the λ / 4 plate and the reflecting member as necessary, and the other By providing a first polarization control type spatial optical switch unit configured to shift the optical path by reflecting the light on the polarization splitting surface of the polarization splitter,
It is arranged in parallel to the incident light, and is arranged in the direction in which the respective polarization splitting surfaces intersect, and one polarization component of the incident light passes through the respective polarization splitting surfaces, and the other polarization orthogonal to this polarization component. A plurality of polarization separators that reflect and output the components, and a plurality of polarization separators that are respectively arranged on the incident light side of the polarization separators and that output the polarization direction of the input light as it is or in the orthogonal direction according to external control. One of the polarization controller and one of the reflection side of each polarization separator has a principal axis with the polarization direction of the incident light.
The polarization separator is provided with a λ / 4 plate arranged perpendicularly to the light passing through the polarization separator so as to form 5 ° and a reflecting member for reflecting the incident light in the same optical path. In between, the main axis is arranged perpendicular to the light passing through the polarization separator so that the main axis forms 45 ° with the polarization direction of the incident light,
A polarization component changing unit for changing from one polarization component to the other polarization component or vice versa, and by controlling the polarization direction in the polarization controller, input light having one polarization component is converted into a polarization separation surface of the polarization separator. While passing through the optical path as it is, by controlling the polarization direction in the polarization controller, the input light having the other polarization component is reflected by the polarization splitting surface of the polarization splitter and passed through the polarization component changing unit, and then λ The second polarization control type spatial light switch unit configured to shift the optical path by reflecting the light on the polarization splitting surface of the other polarization splitter via the / 4 plate and the reflecting member. By combining the first polarization control type spatial light switch unit and the second polarization control type spatial light switch unit in a multi-stage configuration, a two-dimensional array is formed. In multiple-input multiple-output capacity compact, and it can be easily configured the optical switch of multi-stage configuration. Further, there is an advantage that the degree of freedom of the network configuration can be expanded (claims 8 and 12).

In the polarization control type spatial optical switch device of the first and second inventions, the optical path length adjusting means for changing the optical path length of the incident light depending on the polarization state of the incident light on either the input or output side. Is provided, and the optical path length adjusting means allows one polarization component of the incident light to pass through the polarization splitting surface and reflects the other polarization component orthogonal to this polarization component, and outputs the polarized light. On each reflection side of the separator, a λ / 4 plate arranged perpendicular to the light passing through the polarization separator so that the principal axis forms 45 ° with the polarization direction of the incident light, and reflects the incident light in the same optical path. By being configured with a reflecting mirror as a reflecting member, there is an advantage that the optical path length can be adjusted by eliminating or reducing the optical path difference caused by the optical path shift (claims 9, 10, 1).
2).

In the polarization control type spatial optical switch device according to the first and second aspects of the invention, when a space is formed between the constituent elements, the space is provided with a light transmitting member, so that Has the advantage of being easier (claim 1
1). Further, in the polarization control type spatial optical switch device according to the first and second aspects of the present invention, since the reflection coating portion formed on the λ / 4 plate or the protective glass thereof is used as the reflection member, the reflection member is formed. There is an advantage that the space taken up in the above can be reduced and the polarization control type spatial optical switch device itself can be further downsized (claim 13).

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a principle diagram of a first invention.

FIG. 2 is a principle diagram of a second invention.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a polarization control type spatial optical switch device in a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a schematic view showing a polarization control type spatial optical switch device in a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a polarization control type spatial optical switch device having a multi-stage configuration in a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing a polarization control type spatial optical switch device having a multi-stage configuration in a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing a polarization control type spatial optical switch device having a multi-stage configuration in a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a schematic view showing a polarization control type spatial optical switch device having a multi-stage configuration in a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing a polarization control type spatial optical switch device having a multi-stage configuration in a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a polarization control type spatial optical switch device having a multi-stage configuration according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a schematic view showing an optical path length adjusting device in the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a schematic view showing an optical path length adjusting device in the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a schematic view showing a polarization control type spatial optical switch device provided with an optical path length adjusting device in the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing a polarization control type spatial optical switch device in a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a schematic view showing a polarization control type spatial optical switch device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a schematic view showing a polarization control type spatial optical switch device in a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a schematic view showing a polarization control type spatial optical switch device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a schematic view showing a polarization control type spatial optical switch device having a multi-stage structure in a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a schematic view showing a polarization control type spatial optical switch device having a multi-stage structure in a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a network using each polarization control type spatial optical switch device in the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a network using each polarization control type spatial optical switch device in the first and second embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a network using each polarization control type spatial optical switch device in the first and third embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram showing a polarization control type spatial optical switch device in a conventional example.

FIG. 24 is a schematic diagram showing a polarization control type spatial optical switch device in a conventional example.

FIG. 25 is a schematic diagram showing a polarization control type spatial light switch device in a conventional example.

FIG. 26 is a schematic view showing a polarization control type spatial light switch device in a conventional example.

[Explanation of symbols]

1, 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f, 1g, 1
h, 1i, 1j, 1k, 1m, 1n, 50, 62-1,
62-2, 62-3, 64, Q, Q'polarization separator 1 ', 1a', 1b ', 1c', 1d ', 1e', 1
f ', 1g', 1h ', 1i', 1j ', 1k', 1
m ', 1n', 56, R, R'polarization separating surfaces 2a, 2b, 2c, 2c ', 2d, 2e, 2f, 2g,
2h, 53, 53 ', 54, M, M'polarization controller 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 3f, 52, 54,
P, P'λ / 4 plate 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, 4e, 4f, 55, L, L '
Reflecting mirror (reflecting member) 5 Polarization component changing unit 5 ′, 5 ″ λ / 2 plate 6 Optical path length adjusting device (optical path length adjusting means) 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 7e, 7f, 7g, 7h, 7
i, 7j, 7k, 7m, 7n, 7p, 7q, 7r, N,
N ′ Liquid crystal polarization control element 30, 40, 100, 101, 102, 103 Polarization control type spatial light switch device 30 ′, 31, 32, 33, 34, 41 Polarization control type spatial light switch unit 51 Reflection position shifting reflector 57,60 1st reflection block 58,61 2nd reflection block 59 Optical path changing element 63 Optical path changer 65, S Glass rod (light transmission member)

Claims (13)

[Claims] 1. Arranged in parallel with incident light, and
The polarization splitting surfaces (1a ', 1b') are arranged so as to be parallel to each other, and one polarization component of the incident light passes through the polarization splitting surfaces (1a ', 1b'), respectively, and the other polarization component orthogonal to this polarization component. A plurality of polarization separators (1a, 1b) that reflect and output the polarized light component of the output light and the polarization splitters (1a, 1b) are respectively arranged on the incident light side, and the polarization direction of the input light is changed according to external control. , One of the polarization controllers (2a, 2b) that outputs the polarization controller (2a, 2b) as it is or by changing it in the orthogonal direction and one of the reflection sides of the respective polarization separators (1a, 1b), the main axis is 45 ° with the polarization direction of incident light. A λ / 4 plate (3a, 3b) arranged perpendicularly to the light passing through the polarization separator (1a, 1b), and a reflecting member (4a, 4b) for reflecting the incident light in the same optical path. And inputting light having one polarization component to the polarization controller. Thus, by controlling the polarization direction, the polarization separator (1a, 1
The polarization splitting surface (1a ′, 1b ′) of b) is allowed to pass through the optical path as it is, and the polarization direction is controlled by the polarization controller so that the input light having the other polarization component is transmitted to the polarization splitter (1a, 1b). )
Of the polarized light separating surfaces (1a ′, 1b ′) of the λ / 4 plate (3a, 3b) and the reflecting member (4a,
4b) and the other polarization separator (1
A polarization control type spatial optical switch device, characterized in that it is configured to perform an optical path shift by reflecting the light on a polarization splitting surface (1b ', 1a') of (b, 1a). 2. Arranged in parallel with incident light, and
The polarization splitting surfaces (1b ', 1a') are arranged so as to be parallel to each other, and one polarization component of the incident light is transmitted by the polarization splitting surfaces (1b ', 1a'), and the other polarization component orthogonal to this polarization component is passed. A plurality of polarization separators (1a, 1b) that reflect and output the polarized light component of the output light and the polarization splitters (1a, 1b) are respectively arranged on the incident light side, and the polarization direction of the input light is changed according to external control. , One of the polarization controllers (2a, 2b) that outputs as it is or by changing it in the orthogonal direction and one of the reflection sides of each polarization separator (2a, 2b), the main axis is 45 ° with the polarization direction of the incident light. A λ / 4 plate (3a, 3b) arranged perpendicularly to the light passing through the polarization separator (1a, 1b), and a reflecting member (4a, 4b) for reflecting the incident light in the same optical path. And inputting light having one polarization component to the polarization controller. 2
a, 2b) to control the polarization direction so that the polarization splitting surface (1b ', 1a') of the polarization splitter (1a, 1b) is allowed to pass through the optical path as it is, and the polarization controller (2a, 2b). ), The input light having the other polarization component is reflected by the polarization splitting surface (1b ′, 1a ′) of the polarization splitter (1a, 1b), and if necessary, the λ / 4 The polarization splitting surface (1b ′, 1) of the other polarization splitter (1a, 1b) is passed through the plates (3a, 3b) and the reflecting member (4a, 4b).
It is characterized in that it comprises a plurality of polarization control type spatial light switch units configured to shift the optical path by reflecting at a '), and these polarization control type spatial light switch units are combined to form a multi-stage configuration. , Polarization control type spatial light switch device. 3. A polarization control type spatial optical switch device according to claim 2, wherein some of the plurality of polarization separators are constituted by one polarization separator which also has the function of each polarization separator. . 4. Arranged in parallel to incident light, and
The polarized light splitting surfaces (1a ′, 1b ′) are arranged in a direction intersecting with each other. The polarized light splitting surfaces (1a ′, 1b ′) respectively allow one polarization component of the incident light to pass therethrough and the other polarization component orthogonal to this polarization component. A plurality of polarization separators (1a, 1b) that reflect and output a polarization component, and the polarization separators (1a, 1b) are respectively arranged on the incident light side, and the polarization direction of the input light is changed according to external control. A plurality of polarization controllers (2a, 2b) that output as they are or by changing them in orthogonal directions and one of the reflection sides of each polarization separator (1a, 1b) have a main axis that makes 45 ° with the polarization direction of incident light. As described above, the λ / 4 plate (3a, 3b) arranged perpendicular to the light passing through the polarization separator (1a, 1b) and the reflecting member (4a, 4b) for reflecting the incident light in the same optical path are provided. At the same time, the polarization splitter (1 , 1b) are arranged perpendicular to the light passing through the polarization separator (1a, 1b) so that the principal axis forms an angle of 45 ° with the polarization direction of the incident light, and one polarization component is polarized to the other polarization. A polarization component changing unit (5) for changing the component or vice versa, and by controlling the polarization direction in the polarization controller, the input light having one polarization component is converted into the polarization separator (1a, 1a).
The polarized light separating surface (1a ′, 1b ′) of b) is passed through the optical path as it is, and the polarization direction is controlled by the polarization controller, so that the input light having the other polarization component is transmitted to the polarization separator (1a, 1b). 1b)
Of the λ / 4 plate (3a, 3b) after being reflected by the polarization splitting surfaces (1a ′, 1b ′) of the
b) and the reflection member (4a, 4b), and the other polarization separation surface (1b, 1a) of the polarization separation surface (1b, 1a).
A polarization control type spatial optical switch device characterized in that it is configured to perform optical path shift by reflecting at b ', 1a'). 5. Arranged in parallel to incident light, and
The respective polarization splitting surfaces (1b ', 1a') are arranged in the intersecting direction, and one polarization component of the incident light is transmitted by each polarization splitting surface (1b ', 1a'), and the other polarization component orthogonal to this polarization component is passed. A plurality of polarization separators (1a, 1b) that reflect and output a polarization component, and the polarization separators (1a, 1b) are respectively arranged on the incident light side, and the polarization direction of the input light is changed according to external control. A plurality of polarization controllers (2a, 2b) that output as they are or by changing them in orthogonal directions and one of the reflection sides of each polarization separator (1a, 1b) have a main axis that makes 45 ° with the polarization direction of incident light. As described above, the λ / 4 plate (3a, 3b) arranged perpendicular to the light passing through the polarization separator (1a, 1b) and the reflecting member (4a, 4b) for reflecting the incident light in the same optical path are provided. At the same time, the polarization splitter (1 , 1b) are arranged perpendicular to the light passing through the polarization separator (1a, 1b) so that the principal axis forms an angle of 45 ° with the polarization direction of the incident light, and one polarization component is polarized to the other polarization. A polarization component changing unit that changes the component or vice versa, and controls the polarization direction in the polarization controller (2a, 2b) to convert the input light having one polarization component into the polarization separator (1a, 1b). Of the input light having the other polarization component by controlling the polarization direction in the polarization controller (2a, 2b) while allowing the polarization splitting surface (1b ', 1a') of the polarization splitter to pass along the optical path as it is. After being reflected by the polarization splitting surface (1b ', 1a') of (1a, 1b) and passed through the polarization component changing section, the λ / 4
By passing through the plate (3a, 3b) and the reflecting member (4a, 4b) and reflecting by the polarization splitting surface (1b ', 1a') of the other polarization splitter (1a, 1b), A polarization control type space characterized by comprising a plurality of polarization control type space optical switch units of different sizes configured for optical path shifting, and combining these polarization control type space optical switch units into a multi-stage configuration. Optical switch device. 6. The polarization control type spatial optical switch device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the polarization component changing unit is formed of a λ / 2 plate. 7. The polarization control type spatial optical switch device according to claim 4, wherein the polarization component changing section is composed of two λ / 4 plates. 8. Arranged in parallel to incident light, and
The polarization splitting surfaces (1a ', 1b') are arranged so as to be parallel to each other, and one polarization component of the incident light passes through the polarization splitting surfaces (1a ', 1b'), respectively, and the other polarization component orthogonal to this polarization component. A plurality of polarization separators (1a, 1b) that reflect and output the polarized light component of the output light and the polarization splitters (1a, 1b) are respectively arranged on the incident light side, and the polarization direction of the input light is changed according to external control. , A plurality of polarization controllers that output as they are or by changing them in the orthogonal direction and one of the polarization sides of the respective polarization separators (1a, 1b) so that the main axis forms an angle of 45 ° with the polarization direction of the incident light. The λ / 4 plate (3a, 3b) arranged perpendicular to the light passing through the separator (1a, 1b) and the reflecting member (4a, 4b) for reflecting the incident light in the same optical path are provided. The input light having a polarization component is converted by the polarization controller Controls the optical direction, the polarization separator (1a, 1
The polarization splitting surface (1a ′, 1b ′) of b) is allowed to pass through the optical path as it is, and the polarization direction is controlled by the polarization controller so that the input light having the other polarization component is transmitted to the polarization splitter (1a, 1b). )
Of the polarized light separating surfaces (1a ′, 1b ′) of the λ / 4 plate (3a, 3b) and the reflecting member (4a,
4b) and the other polarization separator (1
b, 1a) which is configured to perform optical path shift by reflecting on the polarization splitting surface (1b ', 1a').
Of the polarization control type spatial light switch unit, is arranged in parallel with respect to the incident light, and is arranged in the direction in which the respective polarization splitting surfaces (1a ′, 1b ′) intersect with each other. ', 1b') allows a plurality of polarization separators (1a, 1a, 1a, 1b) to pass one polarization component of the incident light and to reflect and output the other polarization component orthogonal to this polarization component.
1b) and a plurality of polarization controllers which are respectively disposed on the incident light side of the polarization separators (1a, 1b) and output the polarization direction of the input light as it is or in the orthogonal direction according to external control. , One of the reflection sides of each of the polarization separators (1a, 1b) is arranged perpendicular to the light passing through the polarization separators (1a, 1b) so that the main axis forms an angle of 45 ° with the polarization direction of the incident light. The λ / 4 plate (3a, 3b) and the reflecting member (4a, 4b) for reflecting incident light in the same optical path, and between the polarization separators (1a, 1b) through which the polarization-separated light travels, It is arranged perpendicularly to the light passing through the polarization separator (1a, 1b) so that its principal axis forms 45 ° with the polarization direction of the incident light, and changes from one polarization component to the other polarization component or vice versa. A polarization component changing section, and a polarization direction in the polarization controller. Under the control of an input light having one polarization component, the polarization separator (1a, 1
The polarized light separating surface (1a ′, 1b ′) of b) is passed through the optical path as it is, and the polarization direction is controlled by the polarization controller, so that the input light having the other polarization component is transmitted to the polarization separator (1a, 1b). 1b)
Of the λ / 4 plate (3a, 3b) after being reflected by the polarization splitting surfaces (1a ′, 1b ′) of the
b) and the reflection member (4a, 4b), and the other polarization separation surface (1b, 1a) of the polarization separation surface (1b, 1a).
b ', 1a') to provide a second polarization control type spatial light switch unit configured to perform optical path shift, and the above-mentioned first polarization control type spatial light switch unit and second polarization controlling spatial light switch unit. A polarization control type spatial light switch device, characterized in that a control type spatial light switch unit is combined to form a multi-stage configuration. 9. The optical path length adjusting means (6) for changing the optical path length of the incident light depending on the polarization state of the incident light is provided on either the input / output side of the spatial light switch. , 3, 4, 5, 8 which is a polarization control type spatial optical switch device. 10. A polarized light for which an optical path length adjusting means (6) allows one polarization component of incident light to pass through the polarization splitting surface (1 ′) and reflects the other polarization component orthogonal to this polarization component for output. A separator (1) and λ arranged on each reflection side of the polarization separator (1) perpendicular to the light passing through the polarization separator so that the principal axis forms an angle of 45 ° with the polarization direction of the incident light. 10. The polarization control type spatial optical switch device according to claim 9, comprising a / 4 plate and a reflecting member that reflects incident light to the same optical path. 11. The light transmitting member (8) is provided in the space when a space is formed between the spatial optical switch constituent elements, 1, 2, 3, 4, 4. 5,8
A polarization control type spatial light switch device according to any one of 1. 12. A reflecting mirror is used as the reflecting member (4a, 4b).
The polarization control type spatial light switch device according to any one of 4, 5, and 8. 13. The reflection member (4a, 4b) has a λ
The reflective coating part (9) formed on the / 4 plate (3c, 3d) or its protective glass is used. Polarization control type spatial light switch device.