Dual-side waveguide-based wavelength demultiplexer

• Main Authors: Worchesky, Terrance L, Wood, Lance A, Liu, Feng
• Format: Patent
• Language: English
• Published: 09.03.2004

The present invention generally relates to the field of demultiplexers and, more particularly, to a demultiplexer that includes a grating assembly formed on a first side thereof and a photodetector assembly formed on a second side thereof which is opposite the first side. A demultiplexer is disclosed. The demultiplexer incorporates a reflective grating that is associated with a first waveguide through which a multiplexed optical signal may be transmitted. Individual wavelengths of light that have been reflected by the reflective grating are able to pass through a barrier layer which separates the first waveguide from a second waveguide. A plurality of photodetectors are associated with the second waveguide to read out the individual, wavelength-specific optical signals. The reflective grating is preferably formed on a surface of the first waveguide which projects away from the second waveguide, while the photodetectors are preferably formed at least in part by processing a surface of the second waveguide that projects away from the first waveguide. Both polarities of light are preferably accounted for/collected by the grating as well.