Mechanical optical switch: technological pioneer for precise control of light paths

Today, with the rapid development of optical communication technology, mechanical optical switches, as key components for optical path conversion and control, are gradually becoming an important force in promoting the speed and quality of information transmission.

1. Definition of mechanical optical switch

Mechanical optical switch, as the name suggests, is a device that uses the principle of mechanical part movement and optical part reflection and transmission of light to achieve switch control. It cleverly combines mechanical structure with optical characteristics, and achieves precise switching of optical signal paths by controlling the position changes of reflectors or transmissive elements. Mechanical optical switches are mainly composed of light sources, optical fibers, reflectors, detectors, and precise mechanical structures. These components work together to ensure efficient transmission and precise control of optical signals in complex networks.

2. Working principle

The working principle of mechanical optical switches is simple and efficient. When the switch is in the open state, the mechanical structure is in a preset stable position. At this time, the light is transmitted to the reflector through the optical fiber. After being reflected, it is transmitted to the detector along a specific path to complete the reception and processing of the optical signal. On the contrary, when the switch needs to be closed or switched to another path, the mechanical structure will move quickly according to the control signal, changing the position of the reflector or transmissive element, so that the optical signal is transmitted along the new path. In this process, the accuracy of mechanical movement and the stability of optical components jointly ensure the continuity and accuracy of optical signal transmission.

3. Application scope

Mechanical optical switches have been widely used in many fields due to their fast response, long life, high performance and other characteristics:

◆Optical communication network: In optical fiber communication systems, mechanical optical switches are used to achieve rapid switching and protection of optical signals, improve data transmission rate and quality, and are key components for building high-speed and reliable optical networks.

◆Electronic products: For example, touch switches in electronic products such as televisions and mobile phone screens, mechanical optical switches improve user experience with their sensitive touch response and stable performance.

◆Instrumentation: In the fields of optical instruments, medical equipment and other fields, mechanical optical switches are used as key components to control the light path, convert signals and detect light intensity, ensuring the accuracy of measurement and the stability of the system.

◆Automotive electronics: In automotive electronic control systems, such as interior lighting control, brake light control, etc., the rapid response and high reliability of mechanical light switches provide a strong guarantee for driving safety.

The optical switch products produced by Xionghua photoelectric include: mechanical optical switch, all-fiber polarization switch, magneto-optical switch, and MEMS optical switch.