×

Polarization independent optical phase modulator

  • US 5,973,817 A
  • Filed: 05/08/1998
  • Issued: 10/26/1999
  • Est. Priority Date: 05/09/1997
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
Patent Images

1. A polarisation independent optical phase modulator, comprising:

  • first and second substrates;

    a reflector disposed between the first and second substrates;

    a waveplate, disposed between the first substrate and the reflector, for producing a retardation of (n+1)λ

    /4, where n is an integer greater than or equal to zero and λ

    is a predetermined wavelength of visible light, and having an optic axis; and

    a polarisation dependent electrooptic layer, disposed between the waveplate and the first substrate, for modulating the phase of light having a polarisation substantially at 45 degrees to the optic axis of the waveplate;

    the polarisation independent optical phase modulator having a plurality of picture elements, each of which has at least one transparent first electrode disposed between the first substrate and the electrooptic layer and a plurality of second electrodes disposed between the second substrate and the electrooptic layer, wherein each of the second electrodes are elongate and parallel.

View all claims
  • 1 Assignment
Timeline View
Assignment View
    ×
    ×