Abstract: Couplers for a cable trough system including a terminal end sized to receive a terminal end of a trough member along a longitudinal direction of the body. A spring may be coupled to the body for securing the terminal end of the trough member to the coupler, the spring including first and second spring arms extending generally in opposition to one another in a plane generally parallel to the longitudinal direction. The spring may be received in a slot formed by the trough member. Also included may be a spring release mechanism coupled to the body, the spring release mechanism sliding in the longitudinal direction between a locked position, such that the first and second spring arms engage the terminal end of the trough, and an unlocked position, such that the first and second fingers release the first and second arms of the spring.

Abstract: A MEMS-based latching device is described. In accordance with one embodiment, a micro electromechanical system is formed on a substrate. The system includes a positionable member capable of being moved between at least two positions relative to the substrate. An actuator such as a comb drive actuator is provided which may include a stationary comb mounted on the substrate, a moveable comb interleaved with the stationary comb, and a beam connected between the substrate and the moveable comb. The comb drive actuator is coupled to a latching member so that the latching member can be moved between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the latching member engages the positionable member to prevent the positionable member from moving. In the second position, the latching member is disengaged from the positionable member to allow movement of the positionable member. The combs of the comb drive actuator deflect the beam to move the latching member from the first to the second position.

Abstract: A MEMS-based latching device is described. In accordance with one embodiment, a micro electromechanical system is formed on a substrate. The system includes a positionable member capable of being moved between at least two positions relative to the substrate. An actuator such as a comb drive actuator is provided which may include a stationary comb mounted on the substrate, a moveable comb interleaved with the stationary comb, and a beam connected between the substrate and the moveable comb. The comb drive actuator is coupled to a latching member so that the latching member can be moved between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the latching member engages the positionable member to prevent the positionable member from moving. In the second position, the latching member is disengaged from the positionable member to allow movement of the positionable member. The combs of the comb drive actuator deflect the beam to move the latching member from the first to the second position.

Abstract: Device allowing the end (4) of an optical fiber (3) to be positioned and held in place inside a substrate (1), wherein: