Semiconductor-to-metal optical switch for power limitation in th

Details Semiconductor-to-metal optical switch for power limitation in th Semiconductor-to-metal optical switch for power limitation in th

1991-08-21

1992-09-22

Nelms, David C.

Radiant energy

Photocells; circuits and apparatus

Photocell controlled circuit

359248, H01J 4014

Patent

active

051499576

ABSTRACT:
A semiconductor-to-metal optical switch or device for power limitation in the infrared spectral region includes two thin semiconductor layers sandwiched between two transparent electrodes. An electrical voltage is applied across the two semiconductor layers to produce an active device for blocking incident light in the 8 to 12 .mu.m spectral region. The material composition and thickness of the two semiconductor layers are such that enough photo-excited electrons are generated in the first semiconductor layer so that the second semiconductor layer undergoes a rapid semiconductor-to-metal transition at a predetermined light intensity. The semiconductor layers remain transparent below the predetermined light intensity and the second layer will become metal-like at a light intensity above a threshold level. Upon becoming metal-like, the second semiconductor layer will block the incident light. The first semiconductor layer can be made from a material such as mercury cadium telluride and the second semiconductor layer can be made from a material such as germanium.

REFERENCES:
patent: 3344280 (1967-09-01), Martel
patent: 3524064 (1970-08-01), Keyes

Affiliated with

Also associated with

Rating

Semiconductor-to-metal optical switch for power limitation in th does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this patent.

If you have personal experience with Semiconductor-to-metal optical switch for power limitation in th, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Semiconductor-to-metal optical switch for power limitation in th will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFUS-PAI-O-1070694