Abstract: A modulator of the type including an array of light modulating elements. To afford fast response and thus greater modulation bandwidth these elements, each comprising a pair of electrodes and a reflector, are defined in a sheet layer of electro-optic solids material. In particular, this material may be of PLZT ceramics material or of a similar ceramic having a high electro-optic coefficient (quadratic). To advantage, the electrodes may be embedded in the sheet layer. Each modulating element is aligned with and connected to a corresponding drive circuit, part of an integrated circuit structure. Conveniently, solder bumps are used to this end.Light is directed onto the array of modulating elements by an optical interface. This may comprise an array of micro-lenses which too may be aligned by solder bumps. A second reflector may be added to each modulating element, each then being optically resonant.

Abstract: An optical waveguide and method of fabricating waveguide structures is disclosed. More specifically, a method of producing an organic waveguide which comprises treating a transparent plastic substrate with a solution in a inert solvent of an organic dopant which is absorbed into the surface of the substrate, under conditions such that a surface layer is formed having a refractive index which is greater than that of the substrate. Said dopant has a higher affinity for the plastic's substrate than for the solvent.

Abstract: An optical resonant assembly which has at least two stable light transmittance values dependent on incident light beams. The assembly consists of a pair of parallel partially transmission mirrors with a photochromic layer placed therebetween which has a refractive index dependent upon the intensity of incident light beams. The parallel mirrors constitute a Fabry-Perot type resonator. The incident light beams have the effect of "couloring" or "bleaching" the photochromatic material.

Abstract: An optical device comprising a length of optical fibre of predetermined convex configuration supported by fibre mounting and/or attachment means, the convex outer part of the optical fibre having a portion thereof removed therefrom closely adjacent to or even just entering the core of the optical fibre to produce a substantially flat surface therealong on which a reflective diffraction grating of predetermined form is provided according to the function requirements of the device.

Abstract: A method of fabricating optical sensing devices for detecting displacement of a part thereof comprising the steps of bonding a multiplicity of optical devices to one surface of a relatively large transparent substrate so that the optical devices are accurately located relative to one another and to the substrate itself, securing to the opposite surface of the substrate and one surface of a transparent optical element-carrying substrate in parallel relationship thereto resilient spacer support means and dividing the entire assembly into individual unit parts each of which comprises an optical device bonded to one substrate unit and coupled to another substrate unit having its own optical element by a divided part of the resilient spacer support means so that the two substrate units are resiliently mounted relative to one another whereby relative movement between the two substrate units produces variations in the optical characteristics of the device which can be sensed.