Method and apparatus for controllable frustration of total inter

Details Method and apparatus for controllable frustration of total inter Method and apparatus for controllable frustration of total inter

1997-09-04

1999-12-07

Spyrou, Cassandra

Optical: systems and elements

Optical modulator

Light wave directional modulation

359222, 359318, 359320, G02B 2608, G02F 129

Patent

active

059993073

ABSTRACT:
A method and apparatus for facilitating controllable switching an interface between a reflective state in which light incident upon the interface undergoes total internal reflection, and a non-reflective state in which total internal reflection is prevented at the interface. The apparatus incorporates a member (preferably an elastomer) which is deformable with respect to the interface. The member's Young's Modulus in portions of the member adjacent the interface is substantially greater (i.e. stiffer) than the member's Young's Modulus in portions of the member away from the interface. The stiffened portion of the member adjacent the interface may be in the form of a microstructure. A pair of electrodes coupled to a voltage source can be provided to controllably deform the member into optical contact with the interface, within a continuously variable range of optical contact values, to produce the non-reflective state in selectably varying degrees.

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