My journey with Spectraswitch began at age 11 when I built a Heathkit Photoelectric Light Switch Model GD-600 from Radio Shack. I even modified it into a homemade break-beam proximity sensor using a flashlight — an early experiment that subconsciously stayed with me for decades.
Years later, while working with a 1950s General Electric low-voltage relay lighting system, the idea resurfaced strongly: there had to be a better way using fiber optics — one that completely eliminated hazardous copper wiring. After nearly ten years of reflection, I started building prototypes.Early versions relied on simple reflected light detection, but I soon discovered a critical limitation for real-world use: there was no reliable way to know if the fiber had been damaged during installation. This challenge sparked the core breakthrough — using specific colors of light instead of just presence or absence.
What later became known as WSRS (Wavelength Selective Reflective Surface) technology allowed me to develop the first true three-position non-powered remote optical switch for a single-fiber system. Different reflected colors indicate switch positions, while the complete absence of color signals a fault. This delivers built-in self-testing over a single optical fiber — a capability never achieved before.
After many years and dozens of 3D-printed iterations, I perfected the reflective switch mechanism and created a proprietary transceiver with custom circuitry designed specifically for this system. The result requires no electrical power at the remote switch, replacing traditional copper wire with a simple and cheaper Plastic Optical Fiber (POF) solution. The latest design is waterproof, dustproof, and built with non-metallic, non-magnetic materials — ideal for MRI rooms, hazardous locations, and space applications.
Today, Spectraswitch features a modular design with one optimized very small optical core that can integrate into many different mechanical switch configurations. I have built working prototypes for two-position, three-position, and three-way switching, along with a compact battery-powered demonstration unit.
Spectraswitch was born from a practical builder’s mindset: solving real-world problems through patient, hands-on innovation. I’m actively seeking the right industry partners to bring this safety-focused technology to market, especially in Oil & Gas, hazardous environments, healthcare, and marine applications.
See our Safety Slide Show above for real-world examples of how Spectraswitch can benefit your industry.
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