Abstract: An array apparatus has a micromachined SOI structure, such as a MEMS array, mounted directly on a class of substrate, such as low temperature co-fired ceramic, in which is embedded electrostatic actuation electrodes disposed in substantial alignment with the individual MEMS elements, where the electrostatic electrodes are configured for substantial fanout and the electrodes are oversized such that in combination with the ceramic assembly are configured to allow for placement of the vias within a tolerance of position relative to electrodes such that contact is not lost therebetween at the time of manufacturing.

Abstract: A deformable grating aparatus for modulating light is made by forming an insulating layer on a substrate, forming a first conductive layer on the insulating layer and then forming a sacrificial layer thereon. The sacrificial layer and the first conducting layer are then etched to define bit lines and busses to bonding pads. Then a layer of resilient material is formed onto the etched layers and a reflective conducting layer is formed on the resilient layer. A dielectric layer is deposited on the reflective conducting layer. The dielectric layer, the reflective conducting layer, the resilient layer and the sacrificial layer are all then etched to form a grating including a plurality of parallel elements. Thereafter the sacrificial layer is removed below the parallel elements, to suspend the parallel elements over the first conducting layer. The surface is treated to prevent the grating from adhering to the first conducting layer.

Abstract: A reflective/diffractive light valve system collects light from multiple dimensions around a single light source. From these multiple collection dimensions, the light is directed to impinge on the valve from multiple directions. When the valve is configured to be reflective, the light returns to the source. On the other hand, when the valve is configured to be diffractive, light from a first and third order diffraction are transmitted from the valve for each of the collection dimensions which greatly enhances the efficiency of the system.