Abstract: Miniaturized solid-phase extraction (SPE) systems and processes are disclosed. The systems and methods enable preconcentration methods for sample preparation that can be performed on a variety of specimens. The miniaturization of SPE system is accomplished with 3D-printed microfluidic device for fast and simple extraction of analytes.

Abstract: Planar AWG circuits and systems are disclosed that use air trench bends and shared MMI slabs to increase planar circuit compactness.

Abstract: Planar AWG circuits and systems are disclosed that use air trench bends and shared MMI slabs to increase planar circuit compactness.

Abstract: Planar AWG circuits and systems are disclosed that use air trench bends to increase planar circuit compactness.

Abstract: A microscopic translation device for a microelectromechanical system includes a pair of linear stator assemblies disposed in spaced relation to define an elongate channel. Each assembly is formed by a plurality of stators arranged in a row along the channel. A shuttle member is disposed between the stator assemblies for translating movement along the channel. The shuttle member includes a plurality of rotors extending outwardly from opposite sides. The shuttle is grounded through the stator assemblies and includes a mounting area for an object to be translated. Electrical lines are individually connected to alternate stators of a plurality of groups of the stators. A current supply sequentially supplies current through the electrical lines to the alternate stators so as to effect charging of the stators in a predetermined sequence. This produces a tangential capacitive force that causes translation of the shuttle.

Abstract: A planar lightwave circuit has a waveguide having a bend and plurality of multiple trenches with parallel front and back interfaces. The trench and waveguide refractive indexes are different such that a refractive interface is defined between the waveguide and the trench. The trench may include a material of higher refractive index than the waveguide, such as silicon, or alternatively a material having a lower refractive index than the waveguide, such as an air void. The trench is disposed on the waveguide bend such that the front and back planar interfaces have an angle of incidence to a direction of the lightwave propagation from the waveguide. The invention also includes beamsplitters that include trenches that reflect a portion of a lightwave in a first direction and a portion of a lightwave in a second direction.

Abstract: A waveguide assembly is provided that includes a waveguide region and at least one photonic crystal (PhC) region. The waveguide region includes a longitudinally extending core that has an input channel and at least one output channel, and a cladding at least partially surrounding the core for confining signals within the core. The PhC region(s), in turn, extend laterally through at least a portion of the core to at least partially direct signals propagating through the core. The PhC region(s) can extend through at least a portion of the core to thereby form, for example, a bend, beamsplitter, polarizing beamsplitter, Mach-Zender interferometer or ring resonator for signals propagating through the core.

Abstract: A liquid crystal adaptive lens (LCAL) includes a reference plate, a liquid crystal layer disposed in electrical communication with the reference plate, and a plurality of closed-loop electrodes disposed in electrical communication with the liquid crystal layer. The closed-loop electrodes are adapted to receive a variable control voltage such that the refractive index of at least a portion of the liquid crystal layer is adjustable such that light passing through the liquid crystal layer is capable of being redirected. By including closed-loop electrodes, the liquid crystal layer of the LCAL is capable of having a radially varying refractive index.

Abstract: A liquid crystal adaptive lens (LCAL) includes a reference plate, a liquid crystal layer disposed in electrical communication with the reference plate, and a plurality of closed-loop electrodes disposed in electrical communication with the liquid crystal layer. The closed-loop electrodes are adapted to receive a variable control voltage such that the refractive index of at least a portion of the liquid crystal layer is adjustable such that light passing through the liquid crystal layer is capable of being redirected. By including closed-loop electrodes, the liquid crystal layer of the LCAL is capable of having a radially varying refractive index.