The theoretical and experimental behavior of a thermooptic bulk deflector fiber-optic circuit switch

The temperature-dependent refractive index change of the dielectric, glass, has been utilized in the fabrication of a one-dimensional 1 × 2 thermooptic bulk deflector. A two-dimensional 1 × 4 thermooptic device utilizing the optical isotropy of glass, achieving enhanced switching capabilities, has also been successfully fabricated and tested. The theoretical analysis of the physical property of the glass is confirmed to correspond closely with the optical behavior of the switch in terms of its deflection angle and transient response.