Method of using thermally switchable optical devices

Details Method of using thermally switchable optical devices Method of using thermally switchable optical devices

1999-03-10

2000-08-01

Epps, Georgia

Optical: systems and elements

Optical modulator

Light wave temporal modulation

359296, 359358, 359885, G02F 101, G02B 2600, G02B 522, F21V 904

Patent

active

06097530&

ABSTRACT:
Devices that comprise novel, mesoscopically periodic materials that combine crystalline colloidal array (CCA) self-assembly with the temperature ined volume phase transitions of various materials, preferably poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) are disclosed. In one embodiment, a PNIPAM CCA is formed in an aqueous media and contained within cell means. In another embodiment, a CCA of charged particles is formed and polymerized in a PNIPAM hydrogel. Methods for making these devices are also disclosed. The devices of the present invention are useful in many applications including, for example, optical switches, optical limiters, optical filters, display devices and processing elements. The devices are further useful as membrane filters. All of these devices have the feature of being tunable in response to temperature. Devices that change diffracted wavelength in response to pressure are also disclosed.

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