Abstract:
A device and method detect rotational drift of mirror elements in a MEMS tilt mirror array (318) used in an optical crossconnect (300). The optical crossconnect directs optical signals from an input fiber (312) to an output fiber (312) along an optical path by rotatably positioning mirror elements in desired positions. A monitoring device (340,350) disposed outside of the optical path is used to obtain images of the MEMS array (318) or to transmit and receive a test signal through the crossconnect for detecting the presence of mirror element drift.
Abstract:
An optical crossconnect (100) constructed of micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) tilt mirror arrays (118,122) selectively routes optical signals (108) to optic fibers (128). The crossconnect includes a lens array (114) for directing optical signals from a fiber array (112) to the MEMS mirror array (118). Individual mirror elements in the mirror array reflect the optic signals to additional optic elements such as a planar mirror, a transmissive/reflective optical element or a second MEMS mirror array (122) for routing the optical signals to output optic fibers (128).
Abstract:
An ordnance fuse apparatus (100) is described that uses electrical and mechanical, and optical devices. The ordnance fuse apparatus includes a controller (150) to control an optical switch (120) and a laser (111) to detonate an explosive charge (140) of the ordnance. Other embodiments include an accelerometer (122) and/or spin detector (123) for detecting that the ordnance has been fired and an optical detector (114) for detecting the proper operation of the laser (111) and a position sensor for detecting correct positioning of the optical switch (120). Another embodiment includes a microlens (130) to focus the laser optical signal onto the ignitor. In yet other embodiments, the explosive charge (140) is detonated either by ignition of an ignitor or by a shock wave from the ignitor. The resulting ordnance fuse apparatus (100) has significantly reduced size and improved performance and safety.
Abstract:
A micro-opto-electromechanical systems (MOEMS) device comprises a micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) device and a silicon optical-bench (SiOB) device or system. The MEMS device interacts with the SiOB mechanically or electromagnetically. In one embodiment, the MEMS device is operable to provide a switching function for the SiOB device. The MEMS device comprises an actuator that is mechanically linked to an optical interruptor that prevents at least a portion of an optical signal incident thereon from propagating therethrough. In an actuated state, the actuator causes the optical interruptor to move into an optical path of an optical signal traveling through an SiOB device. The signal is at least partially reflected or absorbed such that only a portion of the signal propagates beyond the point of contact with the optical interruptor. Since SiOB processing is typically incompatible with MEMS device processing, the MEMS and SiOB devices are formed on separate supports and then attached, such as via flip-chip bonding methods.
Abstract:
An actuation device employing square-loop latchable magnetic material (14, 16) having a magnetization direction (polarization) capable of being changed in response to exposure to an external magnetic field is disclosed. The magnetic field is created by a conductor assembly with non-solenoid configuration. Once the magnetization direction of the material is so changed, the external magnetic field is no longer required to maintain the new magnetization direction. The latchable magnetic material (14) is disposed on the mobile electrode (20) of a switching device, and another magnetic material (16) is disposed in spaced relation to the latchable magnetic material on a stationary electrode or surface (28). By applying an electrical current to a conductor assembly arranged proximate the latchable material, a magnetic field is created about the latchable magnetic material, to change the magnetization direction and thereby enable the attraction or repulsion of another magnetic material located on the stationary electrode. The resulting relative displacement of the mobile (20) and stationary (18) electrodes effects the selective connection or disconnection of electrical contacts carried on or associated with the respective electrodes of the actuation device without requiring additional power in order to maintain the switched state of the electrodes.