Abstract: In at least one embodiment, a MEMS optomechanical switch in accordance with the present invention includes a substrate, a signal source capable of transmitting a radiation signal, an electrode coupled to the substrate, and a micromachined plate rotatably coupled to the substrate about a pivot axis. The switch further includes a micromirror having an orientated reflective surface, mounted to the micromachined plate and an electrical source coupled to at least one of the electrode and the micromachined plate.

Abstract: A micromachined plate 11, called a torsion plate, selectively pivots upon a substrate responsively to electrical force so as to move an attached micromirror 12 in a same plane; thereby to accurately selectively intercept, and to reflect, a light beam 2 that is moving parallel to the substrate; forming thus an optomechanical switch 1. The electrical force may be electromagnetic 3 in nature or, preferably, electrostatic. In various embodiments the pivoting torsion plate 11 with the micromirror 12 affixed may be (i) biased off the substrate by a three-dimensional structure 14 and/or by a “reshaped” torsion beam 11c, (ii) bent as plate 11d, and operated push OR pull, push AND pull, or push AND push, in a rocking operation, (iii) elevated above the substrate upon a self-assembling “micro-elevator structure” 16, and/or (iv) moved greatly in angular position by action of a “micro-flap” 11f.

Abstract: A user interface, typically to an irrigation controller, prompts user responses by asking questions. The questions are hierarchally organized, preferably in a hierarchal tree having approximately three to six questions on each hierarchal level between root and leaves. All command and data input may be done with only an "OK" pushbutton switch, and with an additional ".uparw.", or ".dwnarw." pushbuttom switches. Each "OK" user response affirms the premise of a currently-displayed question, and advances the questioning to a related branch upon a next hierarchal level. The ".uparw." pushbutton is used to advance the questioning in a first direction. An optimal ".dwnarw.", or down arrow,pushbutton switch advances the presentation of successive questions in a second direction. An optional "HELP" switch invokes context-sensitive help messages.