Novel optical mux-demux module for fiber-optic communication applications

Abstract

We demonstrated a novel design for a multi channel optical MUX/DEMUX module, which uses the principle of a Cassegrain-telescope. We carried out some optical simulations to show the feasibility to build up a multiplexer or de-multiplexer module for Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (4 channels). The set-up consists of a concave mirror that receives different beams which are then focused at the centre. For the case of a MUX-module, different radial positions enable injecting the system different wavelength inputs as the concave mirrors concentrates all the beams in one point (collector fibre). Moreover, for the case of a DEMUX-module, a bulk grating is positioned at one point between the concave mirror and the focal point of it, and when a stream of pulses with different wavelengths reaches this point, it automatically distributes the incoming signal in different radial positions (several collector fibers).