JP2728924B2 - Optical switch array and optical signal transmission system - Google Patents

Description

Description: BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an optical switch array and an optical signal transmission system used for interconnecting a communication network and a parallel computer.

2. Description of the Related Art A switch array is an essential device in the fields of communication and computers, but it is not easy to produce a large-scale device using current semiconductor technology. In particular, crossbar switches are very desirable in terms of characteristics, but because of the large number of switches, only those connecting a small number of terminals have been realized.

On the other hand, attempts have recently been made to fabricate large-scale crossbar switches incorporating optical technology. This is for example Trudy
From E.Bell, IEEE SPECTRUM, August 1986, first column, page 34
It is stated in an article on page 57.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing a conventional optical crossbar switch. Four light sources 1 ₁ to 1 ₄ are intended to be driven by a not shown terminal provided separately, the emitted light beam 2 becomes transmitted light beam 4 passes through the shutter array 3. Four optical detectors 5 ₁ to 5 ₄ receives the transmitted light beam 4, and sends a signal indicating the light receiving state to the not shown terminal provided separately.

This conventional example is limited to showing optical crossbar switch 4 × 4, the signal from the terminal provided in each sent to the light source 1 ₁ to 1 _4. Outgoing beam 2 of light source 1 ₁ to 1 ₄ are incident on the shutter array 3 is spread vertically. Transmitted light beam 4 passing through the transparent portion shown by oblique lines of the shutter array 3 is collected in a horizontal direction, and enters the optical detector 5 ₁ to 5 _4. Signal indicating the light receiving state from the photodetector 5 ₁ to 5 ₄ are sent to the terminal provided for each. Which terminals are connected to each other is determined by which of the shutters of the shutter array 3 is set to the transmission state. For example the light beam from the light source 1 ₁ is incident on the first column of the shutter array 3, but the transmitted light beam when the third line the first column of the shutter as shown in Figure 15 is in a transmissive state photodetector 5 ₃ Is detected by Therefore this case is that the terminal connected to the terminal and the optical detector 5 ₃ connected to the light source 1 ₁ lead. The same is true for other terminals.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a network using the one-way switch array shown in FIG.

This network consists of four sending terminals 11 _{1 -1}
1 _4, and a unidirectional switch array 12,4 amino recipient terminal _131-134. Signal is sent from the transmission side terminal 11 ₁ to 11 ₄ as shown by the arrows in the receiving side terminal _131-134 via a unidirectional switch array 12. However there is a want to send confirmation signal that has received the data from the receiving side terminal _131-134, a signal or the like for requesting data to the terminal 11 ₁ to 11 ₄ of the transmitting side.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a parallel computer using a one-way switch array. 4 processors
21 _{1 to} 21 ₄ are interconnected with the one-way switch array 22, and the transmitting terminal and the receiving terminal are coincident here. Processor signal from the processor 21 ₁ to 21 ₄ which are switched by the unidirectional switch array 22
Head for 21 _{1 to} 21 ₄ . Such when the configuration, the ability of it is possible to send a mutual signal interconnection between the processor 21 ₁ to 21 ₄ falls. For example, processors 21 ₁ to 21 ₄
Considering sending a signal to
Setting the internal shutter of unidirectional switch array 22 to send an input from the processor 21 ₁ to the processor 21 ₄ in. On the other hand, in order to return a response signal such as an input data reception confirmation signal from the processor 21 ₄ to the processor 21 ₁ it is required to reset the aforementioned shutter so as to be output to the response signal processor 21 _1. This forces the switches to switch so that the two processors can signal each other. Therefore it is not possible, such as sending a signal from the processor 21 ₄ to the processor 21 ₃ at this time. The fact that the letter is shifted from the processor 21 ₄ switched in time a response signal to the processor 21 ₁ in the data reception after the switch can.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a shared memory type parallel computer using a bidirectional switch array. This calculator four processors 31 ₁ to 31 _4, and is composed of a bidirectional switch array 32,4 amino memory 33 _to 333 _4. Processor 31 ₁
Any of the to 31 ₄ can be through a bidirectional switch array 32 to access them with any of the memory 33 _to 333 _4. Conventionally, a small bidirectional switch array 32 is made of semiconductor elements. Processors 31 _{1 to} 3
1 signal sent from ₄ is typically an address signal, the memory 33 _to 333 ₄ attributed data signal to the processor 31 ₁ to 31 ₄ receives the address signals. In the case of the configuration shown in FIG. 18, a bidirectional switch array was required, and it could not be realized by the conventional optical crossbar switch.
In addition, a large-scale switch array using a semiconductor element cannot be used, and is limited to a small-scale switch array.

[Problem to be Solved by the Invention] The above-described conventional switch array is shown in FIGS.
In the case shown in the figure, since the signal flows in one direction, there is a disadvantage that the terminal on the transmitting side and the terminal on the receiving side must be fixed and used. In the configuration shown in FIG. 11, when the connection of the processor is changed in accordance with the type of signal, it is necessary to switch the switch. In this case, it is difficult to switch the switches, and there is a disadvantage that the circuit becomes complicated. In FIG. 12, a bidirectional crossbar switch is shown, but this cannot be configured with a conventional optical crossbar switch. However, there is a disadvantage that a large-scale device cannot be configured.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to realize a large-scale optical switch array and an optical signal transmission system that perform bidirectional switching quickly using light.

[Means for Solving the Problems] In the optical switch array of the present invention, when M and N are integers of 2 or more, M × N openable / closable M rows × N columns are arranged in a matrix. A shutter array consisting of shutters; a first light emitting means consisting of M light sources each illuminating each row of the shutter array; and a second light emitting means consisting of N light sources each illuminating each column of the shutter array.
Light-emitting means, first light-receiving means comprising M photodetectors each receiving light from the second light-emitting means passing through each row of the shutter array, and a first light-receiving means passing through each row of the shutter array. An optical switch array comprising: N light detectors each receiving light from one light emitting means; and M light sources of the first light emitting means;
Illuminating one of the half regions of each row of the shutter array, respectively, wherein the N light sources of the second light emitting means respectively illuminate one of the half regions of each column of the shutter array;
The M light detectors of the first light receiving means receive the light passing through the other half of each row of the shutter array, and the N light detectors of the second light receiving means have a shutter array. , Which receives light passing through the other half of each column.

In this case, each light source of the first light emitting means includes a plurality of light emitters provided corresponding to a plurality of shutters forming each row, and each light source of the second light emitting means forms each column. And a plurality of light emitters provided corresponding to the plurality of shutters.

Further, each photodetector of the first light receiving means is composed of a plurality of photoreceptors provided corresponding to a plurality of shutters constituting each row, and each photodetector of the second light emitting means is It may be composed of a plurality of photoreceptors provided corresponding to a plurality of shutters forming a row.

Further, the first light emitting means and the first light receiving means,
The second light-emitting means and the second light-receiving means have the same size as the shutter array, are arranged in close contact with one side of the shutter array, and have the same size as the shutter array. It may be arranged in close contact with the other side.

An optical switch array according to another embodiment of the present invention is a shutter array including M × N openable / closable shutters arranged in a matrix of M rows × N columns, where M and N are integers of 2 or more. A first light emitting means arranged on one side of the shutter array and comprising M light sources respectively illuminating each row of the shutter array; and a first light emitting means arranged on the other side of the shutter array, A second light emitting means comprising N light sources each illuminating each column, and each receiving light from the second light emitting means disposed on one side of the shutter array and passing through each row of the shutter array. The first consisting of M photodetectors
And light receiving means arranged on the other side of the shutter array and receiving light from the first light emitting means passing through each row of the shutter array. And M light sources of the first light emitting means and M light sources of the first light receiving means.
The plurality of photodetectors are arranged parallel to each other at positions optically shifted with respect to the shutter array, and include N light sources of the second light emitting means and N photodetectors of the second light receiving means. Are arranged parallel to each other at a position optically shifted with respect to the shutter array.

In this case, the first anamorphic optical system guides light emitted from the first light emitting means to the shutter array, and guides light from the second light emitting means passing through the shutter array to the first light receiving means. A second anamorphic optical system for guiding light emitted from the second light emitting means to a shutter array and guiding light from the first light emitting means passing through the shutter array to a second light receiving means. It may be that.

Further, the first and second anamorphic optical systems may each include a spherical lens and a cylindrical lens.

Further, the shutter array may include a mask that is opened and closed with a plurality of shutters as one unit, and a predetermined light transmission or reflection pattern is repeatedly formed for each unit.

The optical signal transmission system according to the present invention drives the optical switch array configured as described above and the M light sources of the first light emitting means according to the transmission signal, and outputs the M light sources of the first light receiving means. A first terminal group including M terminals for receiving output signals of the photodetectors;
A second terminal group consisting of N terminals that respectively drive the N light sources of the light emitting means according to the transmission signal and receive the output signals of the N light detectors of the first light receiving means. It is characterized by having been done.

[Operation] By switching the shutter array, the photodetector to which the transmitted light of the light emitted from the light source is incident is selectively switched. Since these light sources and photodetectors are each deployed to a particular terminal in pairs,
The connection destination of each terminal is also switched. In addition, since each light source and photodetector are configured to form a pair as described above, transmission in the phase direction is performed.

EXAMPLES Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the first embodiment of the present invention.

This embodiment, the first group of terminals 41 ₁ to 41 ₄ of the four 4
A second group of terminals 49 ₁ to 49 ₄ of the base is one that shows a state of transmitting and receiving via a bidirectional optical switch array.

Four first group terminals 411 to 414 have _{four first} terminals.
Light source 43 ₁ to 43 ₄ and the second optical detectors 52 ₁ to 52 ₄ are respectively provided are arranged alternately, the second group of four terminals 49 ₁ to 49 ₄ second four in the light source 51 ₁ to 51 ₄ and the first photodetector 47 _{1-47 4} are respectively provided so as to form a pair are arranged alternately. Hereinafter, simply “the first light source 43 ₁
To 43 ₄ ", referred to as a" second light detector 52 _{1-52 4} "," a first photodetector 47 _{1-47 4} "," second light source 51 ₁ to 51 ₄ ". The first group of terminals 41 ₁ to 41 _4, the first light source 43 ₁ to 43 ₄ and the second optical detectors 52 ₁ to 52 ₄ are installed horizontally, the second group terminals 49 ₁ to 49 _4, the 2 of the light source 51 ₁ to 51 ₄ and the first photodetector 47 _{1-47 4} is installed vertically.

The first light source 43 ₁ to 43 ₄ each terminal 41 ₁ to 41 ₄ and 49 ₁ to 49 ₄ are provided for each of the second light source 51 _1-5
1 ₄ transmission signal 42 _{1-42 4} out relative to, 50 _{1-50 4} outputs, to control the emission. In addition, each terminal 41 _{1 to} 41 ₄ and 49
Second photodetector 52 _{1-49 4} provided for each
_{1-52 4,} and enter the first photodetector 47 _{1-47 4} output signal 53 indicating the light receiving state of the outputs ₁ to 53 _4, 48 ₁ to 48 _4. First
The outgoing light beam 44 from the light source 43 ₁ to 43 ₄ of the shutter array 45
Pass through to become a transmitted light beam 47, and the first light detectors 47 _{1 to} 47 ₄
Is received at. The first light source 43 ₁ to 43 _4, the second light source 51 _1-5
The constitutes a _fourth light emitting diode (LED) or a semiconductor laser, and the like. Use The shutter array 45 is a liquid crystal, PLZT or LiNbO ₃ spatial light modulator using an electro-optical material such as a spatial light modulator using a magneto-optical material such as Bi-substituted YIG, further a semiconductor material such as GaAs A spatial light modulator can be used. Further, a display of a type that controls transmittance, for example, electrochromy or the like can also be used.

 Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described.

The first light source 43 ₁ to 43 ₄ in response to signals 42 ₁ to 42 ₄ from the terminal 41 ₁ to 41 ₄ of the first group are driven. Outgoing beam 44 is obtained by expanding only in the vertical direction by the optical system (not shown) the light emitted from the light source 43 ₁ to 43 _4. The emitted light beam 44 enters the shutter array 45 and passes through the shutter in the transmitting state. The transmission part of the shutter array 45 is indicated by oblique lines. The transmitted light beam 46 transmitted through the shutter array 45 is condensed only in the horizontal direction by an optical system (not shown),
It enters the photodetector 47 _{1-47 4.}

Each state of the transmission portion of the shutter array 45 shown in FIG. 1 is light flux emitted from the first light source 43 ₁ to 43 ₄ first
Photodetector 47 _3, 47 _1, 47 _4, 47 are detected by _two. For example the light beam emitted from the first light source 43 ₁ is condensed in the horizontal direction transmitted through the transmitting portion of three rows and one column of the shutter array 45 is spread vertically incident on the photodetector 47 _3. Other light sources,
The same applies to the photodetector. First photodetectors 47 ₁ to 4
7 detection signal 48 ₁ to 48 ₄ from each are sent to the terminal 49 ₁ to 49 ₄ of the second group from the _4, the first group Terminal 41 _1-4
1 ₄ the second group of terminals 49 _3, respectively, 49 _1, 49 _4, 49 ₂ that signals the. In this case the terminal 49 ₁ to 49 ₄ of the second group as mentioned above, it is necessary to send and each data reception confirmation signal to the first group of terminals 41 ₁ to 41 ₄ which came sends a signal. The output signal 50 ₁ to 50 ₄ from the second group of terminals 49 ₁ to 49 ₄ are inputted to the second light source 51 ₁ to 51 ₄ respectively driven. Light beam emitted from the second light source 51 ₁ to 51 ₄ is incident from the direction opposite to the previous shutter array 45 Ke is spread only in the horizontal direction. This beam is a shutter array
After passing through 45, it is condensed only in the vertical direction and the second photodetector
Light is received at 52 _{1 to} 52 ₄ . Shutter array shown in Fig. 1
In the state 45, the light beams from the second light sources 51 _{1 to} 51 ₄ are detected by the second light detectors 52 ₂ , 52 ₄ , 52 ₁ , 52 _{3 respectively} . For example the light flux from the second light source 51 ₁ is detected by the second photodetector 52 ₂ since it is transmitted condensed vertically one row and the second column of the shutter array 45. Others are the same. Second photodetector 5
2 ₁ so to 52 output signals 53 ₁ to 53 ₄ from ₄ is sent to the first group of terminals 41 ₁ to 41 ₄ respectively the second group of terminals 49
The signals from ₁ , 49 ₂ , 49 ₃ , and 49 ₄ are eventually the first group of terminals 4
1 ₂ , 41 ₄ , 41 ₁ , 41 ₃ respectively. Accordingly, regarding the terminals of the first and second groups (41 ₁ , 49
_3), (41 _2, 49 _1), which enables two-way transmission a set of (41 _3, 49 ₄₎ (41 _4, 49 _2). When changing the transmission group, the transmission part of the shutter array 45 may be changed.

The first light source 43 ₁ to 43 _4, the second light source 51 ₁ to 51 _4, the first
Photodetector 47 _{1-47 4,} a transmitting section of the second photodetector 52 _{1-52 4} disposed sequence shutter array 45 to allow two-way transmission for short of the required terminal set has freedom You can adjust it accordingly.

In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, the optical system for actually connecting the members has not been described.
These will be specifically described below.

FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 are diagrams showing the configuration of the first and second anamorphic optical systems. 61 is a first cylindrical lens, and 62 is a first spherical lens. Reference numeral 63 denotes a second spherical lens, and reference numeral 64 denotes a second cylindrical lens. The first anamorphic optical system composed of the first cylindrical lens 61 and the first spherical lens 62 has a function of forming an image in the horizontal direction and expanding a light beam in the vertical direction. Conversely, the second anamorphic optical system composed of the second spherical lens 63 and the second cylindrical lens 64 has a function of expanding a light beam in the horizontal direction and forming an image in the vertical direction. Therefore, the first light source 43 ₁ to 43 ₄ in FIG. 1, between the second photodetector 52 _{1-52 4} and the shutter array 45 by inserting the first anamorphic optical system, the shutter array 45 a 1 of the photodetector 47 _{1-47 4,} by inserting a second anamorphic optical system between the second light source 51 ₁ to 51 ₄ desired operation is obtained. Of course the first light source 43 ₁ to 43 _4, the second photodetector 52 _{1-52 4} and the shutter array 45 is such that a conjugate relationship in the horizontal direction and the first light source 43 ₁ in the vertical direction Four
3 _4, the second photodetector 52 _{1-52 4} is arranged cheek to come to the front focal plane of the first anamorphic optical system. Similarly the shutter array 45 first photodetector 47 _{1-47 4,} as the second light source 51 ₁ to 51 ₄ become a conjugate relationship in the vertical direction, the shutter array 45 in the horizontal direction second Ana The morphic optical system is disposed so as to be substantially at the front focal plane. Considering the optical transmission in the reverse direction, the first photodetectors 47 _{1 to} 47 ₄ ,
Of the light source 51 ₁ to 51 ₄ it is better to place the back focal plane of the second anamorphic optical system in the horizontal direction. Similarly, the shutter array 45 is preferably located at the back focal plane of the first anamorphic optical system. On the design side of the anamorphic optical system that enables these conditions, the first cylindrical lens 61 and the first spherical lens 62 are disposed close to each other with the same focal length, and the second spherical lens 63 and the This means that the two cylindrical lenses 64 are arranged close to each other with the same focal length. At this time, the focal length of the anamorphic optical system in the direction of the imaging relationship is twice the focal length of each of the constituent lenses, and the above-described arrangement is performed so that the imaging magnification becomes the same. The condition is satisfied. Here in the imaging utilizing changes shall such position where the light beam 44 emitted from the light source 43 ₁ to 43 ₄ since it is inverted image incident on the shutter array 45 has been described above but not the essential problem,
The order of the signal lines may be changed, or the drive signal for the shutter array 45 may be changed. This is the same for the second anamorphic optical system, so that the connection relationship of the signal lines may be considered in total.

In the second anamorphic optical system, a shutter array
45 does not perform a focusing in the horizontal direction for the transmitted light beam 46 that has passed through the but go spread the light beam in the horizontal direction, the shutter array 45 first photodetector 47 _{1-47 4} in the row to each position Can receive the light flux from all the transmission parts, and the above-described desired operation can be obtained. The same applies to the first anamorphic optical system in the optical signal transmission in the reverse direction.

Figure 4 is a front view showing a portion of the shutter array 45 involved in signal transmission to the second terminal 49 ₁ to 49 ₄ from the first terminal 41 ₁ to 41 ₄ in FIG. 1. FIG. 5 is a front view showing a part of the shutter array 45 involved in transmission in the reverse direction. Numeral 65 is a portion of the shutter array 45 used for transmission in the first direction, and the vertical region is the first region.
The outgoing light beam 44 and the shutter array 45 from the light source 43 ₁ to 43 ₄
And the area in the horizontal direction is the first photodetector.
47 _{1 to} 47 ₄ receive the transmitted light beam from the shutter array 45
Part is shown. Similarly, reference numeral 66 denotes a portion of the shutter array 45 used for transmission in the reverse direction, and the area in the horizontal direction is the second light source.
Region light beam emitted from 51 ₁ to 51 ₄ to prove the shutter array 45, a vertical direction of a region is the region of the shutter array 45 second photodetector 52 _{1-52 4} is receiving the transmitted light beam.
Reference numeral 67 denotes a shutter, which indicates a specific shutter on the first and second rows.

4 and 5, a hatched portion of the shutter array 45 is a transmission portion. As for the shutter 67 in the transmission of the first direction is transmitted through the light beam from 43 ₂ of the first light source, 2 of the first group because is received by the first photodetector 47 ₁
It has a function of transmitting a signal from the second terminal to the first terminal of the second group. Meanwhile the shutter 67 and a signal from the reverse direction in the transmission and also serves to send the light flux from ₁ second light source 51 to 52 ₂ of the second photodetector, whereby the second group of the first terminal Sent to the second terminal of the first group. That is, the second terminal of the first group and the first terminal of the second group perform bidirectional communication via the shutter 67. The same applies to the other shutters of the shutter array 45. By setting the shutter at the i-th row and the j-th column of the shutter array 45 as a transmission portion, the j-th terminal of the first group and the i-th terminal of the second group are connected. Two-way communication can be performed.

In each of the bidirectional transmissions, the light beams are spatially separated as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, but if the separation is not sufficient, crosstalk occurs. Therefore, it is desirable to provide a mask in the shutter portion or to shape the shutter into a desired shape. The necessary transmission part in the shutter array 45 is only the upper left and lower right parts which divide each shutter into four parts in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, so that the crosstalk is reduced by transmitting the light flux only to that part. I do.

Fibers can be used instead of lenses. For example outgoing end of the fiber bundle is incident in the light beam emitted from the first light source 43 ₁ immediately fiber bundle keep shaped to illuminate the first column of the shutter array 45. The same applies to the other light sources 43 _{2-43 4.} Behind the shutter array 45 to toward the outgoing end of the fibers arranged along the first row to the first photodetector 47 _1. First similarly directing outgoing end side by side fiber on the second line after the shutter array 45 towards each for each row optical detector with regard photodetector 47 _{2-47 4.}

The second light source 51 ₁ to 51 ₄ used in the reverse transmission, likewise it is sufficient to place the optical fiber bundle for the second optical detectors 52 ₁ to 52 _4.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a main part of a second embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 6, reference numerals 71a, 71b... 74a, 74b denote first surface light sources. 81a, 82b ... 84a, 84b are first photodetector arrays. Reference numerals 85a to 88b denote second planar light sources, and reference numerals 89a to 92b denote second photodetector arrays. 79 is a shutter array, the first
Are equivalent to those described in the embodiment. The same applies to the pattern of the transmission part. Reference numeral 80 shown in FIG. 7 denotes a mask, and a large number of openings are provided on the entire surface. It can be manufactured by mechanically working a metal to make a hole, or by depositing Al or Cr on a glass substrate and forming an opening pattern by photolithography. A hatched portion in the mask 80 indicates that a light beam is transmitted.

FIG. 7 is a partially enlarged view of the mask 80. One shutter of the shutter array 79 includes 4 × 4 segments of the mask 80, of which four diagonal portions are open. This pattern of 4 × 4 segments is repeated over the entire surface.

The second embodiment shown in FIG. 6 is an optical switch array for connecting a total of eight terminals, not shown, to four terminals. One terminal has two lines for input and two lines for output. Surface light source,
In the photodetector, the same numbers indicate that they are connected to lines for input or output from the same terminal. The first planar light sources 71a... 74b are respectively connected to the lines of output from the first group of four terminals, and the second planar light sources 71a.
85a... 88b are connected to the output lines from the four terminals of the second group, respectively. Also, the first photodetector array 81
.. 84b are connected to the input lines to the second group of four terminals, respectively, and the second photodetectors 89a... 92b are respectively connected to the input lines to the first group of four terminals. For terminals in the same group, surface light sources 71a, 71b and photodetectors 89a, 8
9b belongs to the same terminal, and the surface light source and the photodetector are paired and connected to the same terminal in ascending order of number.

In the present embodiment, the light beam from the light source does not need to be spread by an optical system or the like, but a light source that originally spreads is used. The same applies to the side of the photodetector, in which the optical system for collecting the light beam is omitted, and a surface type photodetector is used instead.

The surface light sources 71a and 71b are driven and emit light by an output signal from one terminal of the first group. Shutter array 7
Assuming that the pattern 9 has the same pattern of transmitting portions as the shutter array 45 of FIG. 1, the emitted light beam passes through the third row and first column of the shutter array 79 and enters the mask 80. The mask 80 is provided so that an output line from each terminal is connected to a predetermined input line of a terminal to which a signal is to be transmitted, and since there is a diagonal opening, the surface light sources 71a and 71b are provided. Are detected by the photodetectors 83a and 83b, respectively, so that the surface light source of the combination in which the subscripts a and b match,
A photodetector transmits and receives signals. This is the address signal,
This is because it is not necessary to connect a signal representing a certain bit to another bit signal in the exchange of a data signal or the like, and it is sufficient to always connect a fixed bit signal.
By providing the mask 80, the number of shutters of the shutter array 79 can be reduced. Such a system has been devised by the inventor, and is disclosed in detail in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 61-191165. The outputs from the photodetectors 83a and 83b are sent to one of the terminals of the second group, and the signals are sent from the terminals of the first group to the terminals of the second group. The same applies to the transmission of signals from the other terminals of the first group to the other terminals of the second group, including the first surface light sources 71a, 71b,..., 74a, 74b, the first photodetector array 81a, 81b,..., 84a, 84b.

On the other hand, the signal transmission from the second group of terminals to the first group of terminals is performed by the second surface light sources 85a, 85b,..., 88a, 88b,
, 92a, 92b. The output signal from the second terminal to which the output from the first photodetector arrays 83a and 83b described above is sent is sent to the second surface light sources 87a and 87b. Shutter array 79
Since the shutter in the first row and third column is in a transmitting state, the light fluxes from the second planar light sources 87a and 87b pass through the mask 80 and the shutter array 79 and then pass through the second photodetector array. The light is received by the photodetectors 89a and 89b.

Since the second photodetectors 89a and 89b are connected to the first group of terminals connected to the first planar light sources 71a and 71b described above, bidirectional transmission is performed. Is being performed. The same applies to other terminals.

In this embodiment, a lens is unnecessary, and the first and second planar light sources 71a... 74b, 85a.
9, mask 80, first and second photodetector arrays 81a ... 84b,
There is an advantage that a very compact device can be obtained by integrating 89a to 92b.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the third embodiment of the present invention.

This embodiment is similar to the first embodiment shown in FIG.
Terminals 41 _{1 to} 41 ₄ of the group and Terminals 49 ₁ to 49 ₄ of the second group
This shows a state in which transmission / reception is performed between the server and the server. A first group of terminals 41 _{1 to} 41 ₄ has four first light sources 102 _{1 to} 102 _4.
And four of the second photodetector 112 _{1-112 4} are respectively provided, in the second group of terminals 49 ₁ to 49 ₄ four first photodetector 106 _{1-106 4} and 4 the second light source 109 _{1-109 4} are provided, respectively. Terminal 41 _{1-41 4,} the first light source 102 _{1-102 4} and second photodetectors 112 ₁ to 112 ₄ is placed horizontally, the terminal 49 ₁ to 49 _4, the first photodetector 106 ₁
- 106 ₄ and four second light sources 109 ₁ to 109 ₄ are provided vertically. First light sources 102 _{1 to} 102 ₄ and second light detector 11
2 _{1-112 4} and the first photodetector 106 _{1-106 4} the second light source
109 _{1-109 4} are provided in parallel, respectively. Each terminal 41 ₁ to 41 ₄ and 49 ₁ to 49 ₄ is the first light source 102 _{1-102 4} provided for each output signal 101 _{1-101 4} with respect to the second light source 109 _{1-109 4} outputs 108 ₁ to 108 _4, and controls the light emission. In addition, each terminal 41 _{1 to} 41 ₄ and 49 ₁
To 49 second photodetector 112 ₄ provided for each
_{1-112 4,} have entered the first input signal 113 _{1-113 4} showing a light receiving state of the photodetector 106 _{1-106 4} outputs, 107 ₁ to 107 _4.

Light beams 103 emitted from the _first light sources 102 _{1 to} 102 ₄ pass through a shutter array 104 provided in the same manner as in the first embodiment, as shown by a solid line, to become transmitted light beams 105, and a first light detector 105. It enters the 106 _{1-106 4.} The outgoing light beam 4 from the second light source 109 _{1-109 4,} the shutter array 104 as shown by a broken line
Pass through to become a transmitted light beam 111, and the second photodetectors 112 ₁ to 112 ₁
Incident to 12 _4.

In the present embodiment, the same anamorphic optical system as in the first embodiment is used. That is, the first light sources 102 ₁ to 10 ₁
2 ₄ , second photodetectors 112 _{1 to} 112 ₄ and shutter array 104
The first anamorphic optical system shown in FIG. 2 is provided between the shutter array 104 and the first photodetectors 106 ₁ to 106.
6 _4, a second anamorphic optical system shown in FIG. 3 is inserted between the second light source 109 _{1-109 4.}

The crossbar switch shown in FIG. 8 connects two groups of four terminals each other. In the present embodiment, as described in the first embodiment, the anamorphic optical system utilizes a function of forming an image in one direction and expanding a light beam in a direction perpendicular thereto. . In other words, with respect to the direction of spreading the light flux, the position where the light source and the photodetector are placed has a wide tolerance,
The light source and the photodetector can be arranged in two rows.

Output signal 101 _{from 1} to 10 from a terminal 41 ₁ to 41 ₄ of the first group
The first light source 102 _{1-102 4} according to 1 ₄ emits light. Luminous flux
103 is transmitted through the shutter array 104, the transmitted light beam 105 is detected by the first photodetector 106 _{1-106 4.} Thus, it is apparent that a crossbar switch for one-way transmission is configured.

Even if the first light sources 102 _{1 to} 102 ₄ are slightly moved up and down, the emitted light beam 103
Has a little effect on the operation of the crossbar switch because it is spread in the vertical direction. Similarly, the first photodetector 106 ₁
- 106 ₄ can receive the transmitted beam 105 also moves slightly to the left and right.

Signal transmission is performed from the photodetector 106 _1-106 is the signal received by the ₄ input signals 107 ₁ to 107 ₄ becomes the first group of terminals 41 ₁ to 41 ₄ to the terminal 49 ₁ to 49 ₄ of the second group .

On the other hand, the output signal 108 _{1-108 4} from the second group of terminals for driving the second light source 109 _{1-109 4.} The emitted light beam 110 is transmitted through the shutter array 104, and the transmitted light beams 102 _{1 to} 102 ₄
It is received by the photodetector 112 _{1-112 4.} Second light source 109 ₁ to
109 ₄ , shutter array 104, second photodetectors 112 _{1 to} 112
₄ also constitutes a crossbar switch. Movement to the left and right of the second light source 109 _{1-109 4,} the second photodetector 112 ₁ to 11
2 move to ₄ of the top and bottom do not much affect the operation of the crossbar switch. Receiving signals of the second photodetector 112 _{1-112 4} also performed transmission of the input signal 113 _{1-113 4} next reverse to the terminal 41 ₁ to 41 ₄ of the first group.

Focusing on three rows and one column of the shutter of the shutter array 104, the 49 ₃ and 41 ₁ of the first group of terminals the second group of terminals is performing bidirectional signal transmission by transmitting this portion I understand. The same applies to the other shutters, and one set of terminals performs bidirectional transmission via one shutter.

In the above description of the embodiment, the light source and the photodetector are always provided in the input / output section of the crossbar switch. However, the optical signal may be input as it is using an optical fiber, and the output side is also used. It is not always necessary to perform photoelectric conversion, for example, to guide the optical device to the next stage optical device using an optical fiber.

In the embodiment, the shutter array is of a transmission type. However, a reflection type shutter array which selectively reflects light from a light source toward a photodetector provided in a specific direction may be used. Such a reflective shutter array is formed by a known method using liquid crystal or GaAs.

[Effects of the Invention] As described above, in the present invention, a light source, a light detector, and other light input and light output members are provided on both sides of a shutter array so as to form a pair. Signal transmission becomes possible, and there is an effect that a large-scale crossbar switch can be realized.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a first anamorphic optical system, FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a second anamorphic optical system, 4 and 5 are views showing a transmitting portion of the shutter array 45 in FIG. 1, FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a main part of a second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. FIG. 8 is a partially enlarged view of the mask 80 in FIG.
FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing a conventional optical crossbar switch.
FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a network using a unidirectional switch array, FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a parallel computer using a unidirectional switch array, and FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a bidirectional switch array. It is a block diagram of the shared memory type parallel computer used. 1 ₁ to 1 ₄ ...... light source, 3 ...... shutter array, 5 ₁ to 5 ₄ ...... photodetector 12 ...... unidirectional switch array, 22 ...... unidirectional switch array, 32 ...... interactivity Switch array, 41 _{1 to} 41 ₄ ... First group of terminals, 43 ₁ to 43 ₄ ... First light source, 45... Shutter array, 47 _{1 to} 47 ₄ ... First light detector, 49 ₁ to 49 ₄ ...... second group of terminals, 51 _{1-51 4} ...... second light source, 52 _{1-52 4} ...... second photodetector, 61 ...... first cylindrical lens, 62 ...... first 1 spherical lens, 63 ... second spherical lens, 64 ... second cylindrical lens, 71a-74b ... first planar light source, 79 ... shutter array, 80 ... mask, 81a-84b ... .., A first light detector, 85a to 88b, a second surface light source, 89a to 92b, a second light detector, 102 _{1 to} 102 _{4, a} first light source, 104, a shutter array, 106 _{1-106 4} ...... first photodetector, 109 ₁ to 109 ₄ ...... second light source, 112 ₁ to 112 ₄ ...... photodetectors of the second group.

Claims (9)

(57) [Claims] When M and N are integers of 2 or more, M
A shutter array including M × N openable / closable shutters arranged in a matrix of rows × N columns, a first light emitting unit including M light sources for illuminating each row of the shutter array, and the shutter A second light emitting means comprising N light sources respectively illuminating each column of the array, and a second light emitting means comprising M light detectors respectively receiving light from the second light emitting means passing through each row of the shutter array. An optical switch array comprising: a first light receiving means; and a second light receiving means comprising N light detectors each receiving light from the first light emitting means passing through each row of the shutter array. The M light sources of the first light emitting means each illuminate one of the half areas of each row of the shutter array, and the N light sources of the second light emitting means illuminate one of the half areas of each column of the shutter array. One side Each of the M light detectors of the first light receiving means receives light passing through the other half of each row of the shutter array, and the N light detectors of the second light receiving means. An optical switch array, wherein the detector is configured to receive light passing through the other half of each row of the shutter array. 2. A light source of the first light emitting means comprises a plurality of light emitters provided corresponding to a plurality of shutters constituting each row, and each light source of the second light emitting means comprises a column. 2. The optical switch array according to claim 1, comprising a plurality of light emitters provided corresponding to the plurality of shutters constituting the optical switch. 3. Each photodetector of said first light receiving means comprises a plurality of photoreceptors provided corresponding to a plurality of shutters constituting each row, and each photodetector of said second light emitting means. The optical switch array according to claim 1, wherein the optical switch array comprises a plurality of photoreceptors provided corresponding to a plurality of shutters constituting each row. 4. The first light-emitting means and the first light-receiving means have the same size as a shutter array, are arranged in close contact with one side of the shutter array, and have the second light-emitting means and the first light-receiving means. 2. The optical switch array according to claim 1, wherein the second light receiving means has the same size as the shutter array, and is arranged in close contact with the other side of the shutter array. 5. When M and N are integers of 2 or more, M
A shutter array comprising M × N openable and closable shutters arranged in a matrix of rows × N columns, and M light sources arranged on one side of the shutter array for illuminating each row of the shutter array A first light emitting means comprising: N light sources disposed on the other side of the shutter array for illuminating each row of the shutter array; and one side of the shutter array. A first light receiving means comprising M light detectors each receiving light from a second light emitting means passing through each row of the shutter array, and a light receiving means arranged on the other side of the shutter array; A second light receiving means comprising N light detectors each receiving light from the first light emitting means passing through each row of the shutter array. M light sources of the first light emitting means;
The M light detectors of the first light receiving means are arranged in parallel with each other at positions optically shifted with respect to the shutter array, and the N light sources of the second light emitting means and the second light receiving means Wherein the N photodetectors are arranged in parallel with each other at positions optically shifted with respect to the shutter array. 6. A first anamorphic optic for guiding light emitted from the first light emitting means to a shutter array and guiding light from the second light emitting means passing through the shutter array to a first light receiving means. A second anamorphic optical system that guides light emitted from the second light emitting means to a shutter array, and guides light from the first light emitting means passing through the shutter array to a second light receiving means. The optical switch array according to claim 5, further comprising: 7. The optical switch array according to claim 6, wherein each of said first and second anamorphic optical systems comprises a spherical lens and a cylindrical lens. 8. The shutter array according to claim 1, wherein the shutter array is opened and closed with a plurality of shutters as one unit, and includes a mask in which a predetermined light transmission or reflection pattern is repeatedly formed for each unit. Optical switch array. 9. The optical switch array according to claim 1 or 5, and said M light sources of said first light emitting means are respectively driven in accordance with a transmission signal, and said M light sources of said first light receiving means are driven. A first terminal group consisting of M terminals for receiving output signals of the plurality of photodetectors; and N light sources of the second light emitting means, respectively driven according to a transmission signal, and a first light receiving means. A second terminal group comprising N terminals for receiving the output signals of the N photodetectors.