Fiber optic bidirectional wavelength division multiplexer/demultiplexer with total and/or partial redundancy, US4522462, 06/11/1985

The wavelength division multiplexer/demultiplexer includes a gradient index of refraction (GRIN) lens and a diffraction grating located adjacent to one end of the GRIN lens. The diffraction grating is adapted for switching from a first angle to a second angle with respect to the GRIN lens. For both path and terminal equipment redundancy, first and second input optical fibers are located at first and second input locations on an end surface of the GRIN lens. A first and a second plurality of output optical fibers are also located on this end surface of the GRIN lens. The input and output optical fibers are located so that optical energy will travel from the first input optical fiber to the first plurality of output optical fibers when the diffraction grating is oriented at the first angle and optical energy will travel from the second input optical fiber to the second plurality of output optical fibers when the diffraction grating is oriented at the second angle.