Optical waveguides – With optical coupler – Switch
Patent
1994-03-14
1995-08-29
Bovernick, Rodney B.
Optical waveguides
With optical coupler
Switch
385 22, G02B 626
Patent
active
054468116
ABSTRACT:
A micromachined device for selectively switching an optical fiber between a first and a second position includes a working leg that undergoes a greater degree of thermal expansion than a second leg with the conduction of an electrical current through the two legs. In a preferred embodiment, the working leg has a cross-sectional area that is less than that of the second leg, thereby presenting a greater electrical resistance to the current flow. The legs are each fixed to a substrate at first ends and are interconnected at second ends that are free to move relative to the substrate. The difference in electrical resistance provides a differential in thermal expansion, as the working leg lengthens to a greater degree than the second leg. The working leg deforms the second leg and the optical fiber is pressed into a second position until current flow is terminated. In another embodiment, the differential in thermal expansion is created by ensuring that the second leg has less thermal isolation from the substrate than the thermal isolation of the working leg from the substrate.
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Field Leslie A.
Ruby Richard C.
Bovernick Rodney B.
Hewlett--Packard Company
Ngo John
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