Abstract: An optical MEM devices which utilizes individually addressable ribbon pairs configured to modulate light is disclosed. The ribbon pairs preferably comprise silicon nitride with a reflective aluminum layers, wherein at least one ribbon from each ribbon pair is in electrical communication with a driver circuit for controllably addressing the ribbon pairs individually. The ribbons are preferably configured to modulate light having wavelengths in a range of 0.4 to 2.0 microns suitable for display and optical communication technologies. The system preferably comprises optical fibers for transmitting light to individually addressable ribbon pairs and for transmitting reflected light from individually addressable ribbon pairs.

Abstract: The current invention provides for encapsulated release structures, intermediates thereof and methods for their fabrication. A multi-layer structure has a capping layer, that preferably comprises silicon oxide and/or silicon nitride, and which is formed over an etch resistant substrate. A patterned device layer, preferably comprising silicon nitride, is embedded in a sacrificial material, preferably comprising poly-silicon, and is disposed between the etch resistant substrate and the capping layer. Access trenches or holes are formed in to capping layer and the sacrificial material is selectively etched through the access trenches, such that portions of the device layer are release from sacrificial material. The etchant preferably comprises a noble gas fluoride NGF2x, (wherein NG=Xe, Kr or Ar: and where x=1, 2 or 3). After etching that sacrificial material, the access trenches are sealed to encapsulate released portions the device layer between the etch resistant substrate and the capping layer.

Abstract: A sheet metal enclosure containing a thickness of Styrofoam Insulating material designed to slide over the plywood panel on attic stairways. A rubber seal is placed on the perimeter of the back side of the panel creating a seal between the living area and attic space reducing air transfer between the two spaces. The Styrofoam provides an amount of insulation reducing temperature transfer between the two spaces. The sheet metal panel provides for the containment of the insulating material and mounting surface for the rubber seal and reduces warping of the attic stairway plywood panel because it is held rigid within the confines of the metal enclosure containing the Styrofoam. The closure springs on the attic stairway provide the tension to hold the stairway closed and create a tight seal.

Abstract: An optical MEM devices which utilizes individually addressable ribbon pairs configured to modulate light is disclosed. The ribbon pairs preferably comprise silicon nitride with a reflective aluminum layers, wherein at least one ribbon from each ribbon pair is in electrical communication with a driver circuit for controllably addressing the ribbon pairs individually. The ribbons are preferably configured to modulate light having wavelengths in a range of 0.4 to 2.0 microns suitable for display and optical communication technologies. The system preferably comprises optical fibers for transmitting light to individually addressable ribbon pairs and for transmitting reflected light from individually addressable ribbon pairs.

Abstract: A grating light valve has with a plurality of spaced reflective ribbons are spatially arranged over a substrate with reflective surfaces. The grating light valve is configured to optimized the conditions for constructive and destructive interference with an incident light source having a wavelength &lgr;. The grating light valve preferably has a set of movable active ribbons alternating between the set of stationary bias ribbons. The active ribbons and the bias ribbons are spatially separated over the substrate surface such that reflective regions of the substrate surface correspond to the spaces between the ribbons. The ribbons and reflective regions of the substrate optically and geometrically optimized for to generate the conditions for constrictive and destructive interference with the incident light source.

Abstract: A pendulum motor having a stator and a cantilever beam moveable by an electrostatic force to predetermined positions relative to a supporting structure. A micro electro mechanical system (MEMS) mechanism is formed on a semiconductor substrate using process steps that are completely compatible with current CMOS technology. A cantilever beam is fixed at one end to a structural layer and an electrode arrangement that provides an electrostatic field across a gap between the beam and a stator. A force between the beam and the stator generated by the electrostatic field results in movement of the free end of the beam relative to the stator. The free end of the beam may then be displaced by a predetermined amount from an equilibrium position and held in place by means of an applied electrostatic field. Movement of the free end of the beam is in a plane parallel to the surface of the support structure and it may follow either a circular or a non-circular path.

Abstract: A biological safety cabinet is provided that includes a frame. The frame defines a protected work area and encloses the work area on all but one side. A sash is coupled to the frame that at least partially encloses the side that is not enclosed by the frame. A blower is coupled to the frame generally above the work area. The blower is adapted to circulate air through the work area to make the work area a negative pressure area so that harmful materials are confined. A sash grill is coupled to the frame generally below the sash that has a curved top surface. The curved sash grill provides a superior and less turbulent air-flow into the work area, thereby better containing any harmful materials. The curved sash grill is perforated, and the curvature and perforations of the sash grill compensate for partial blockage by such things as the user's arms and other objects.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for purifying water to two different laboratory quality levels of purity, both of which are made available for dispensing. Ordinary tap water is prefiltered and treated by reverse osmosis to produce virtually salt free product water which is made available to a cabinet mounted faucet. The product water is delivered to a system of polishing cartridges which produce polished water and supply it to a special hand held dispensing gun. A recirculation pump operates to recirculate the water in the polishing system to prevent it from standing and eliminate the need for water storage. The product water is also recycled through the reverse osmosis cartridge. Some of the reject water from the RO cartridge is directed to a drain, but most of the reject water is recycled to conserve water. A microprocessor based control system monitors and displays the water quality and other conditions and generates an alarm if an abnormal condition arises.