Routing algorithm of folded multistage optical interconnection network

The rearrangeable multistage optical interconnection network plays an important role in optical communication and optical computing. First, a folded optical network is designed and fabricated by using the right-angle prism or mirror. Then optical signals are separated in free space based on this type of feedback scheme, and leaded to the upper and the lower parts of multistage network, respectively. Furthermore, a novel design of 2×2 optical switch is proposed to realize the transmission and control of incident beams. Next, the corresponding states of each of node-switches are in turn ascertained in terms of the optimum routing algorithm designed here, which has the capability of realizing any permutations of its inputs onto its outputs. Finally, the folded multistage optical interconnection network takes advantage of the spatial structure more efficiently, and features relatively small-size, compact in structure and highly dense integration. It is may be useful for large scale multiprocessor and broadband communication networks in the future.