Reflection-type space-division optical switch based on the electrically tuned Goos–Hänchen effect

A reflection-type space-division optical switch is theoretically proposed and experimentally demonstrated based on the electrically tuned Goos?H?nchen effect in a symmetrical metal-cladding waveguide which employs the PMN?PT ceramics as the guiding layer. Owing to the high sensitivity of the ultrahigh-order modes, the variation of refractive index and thickness induced by the exertion of the controlled voltage on the PMN?PT ceramics will easily give rise to a change in the position of the reflected light. In the experiment, a three-pinhole array is put in the reflected light path and a one-to-three optical switch is achieved. The switching time for 10%?90% light intensity change and the optical crosstalk are measured to be lower than 1.63??s and ?29?dB, respectively. Since the Goos?H?nchen shift can reach approximately 1?mm, the number of output ports can be further increased on condition that the utilized incident light has a smaller spot diameter.