Abstract: An integrated actuator for an optical switch mirror array, which uses a novel integrated actuation technique combining electrostatic or electromagnetic (or both) actuation in combination with air (or any other gas) blast actuation. This combined approach provides integrated actuation, by use of an air (or any gas) blast to move the mirror to a tilt position, and with the application of the proper voltage, to have the pull-in effect take over and move the mirror to its final position. The pull-in effect can be achieved also by a magnetic field. The integrated design provides advantages because the mechanical moment provided by a relatively small air (gas or fluid) blast is significantly larger than the moment available from electrostatic or electro-magnetic actuation at reasonable field strength levels.

Abstract: An improved method for providing high-quality optical fiber metallization with the required length at the required location. The method enables metallized optical fibers to be soldered and connected to mechanical components while reducing the level of stress in the metal coatings and providing strong adhesion, good conductivity and connectivity. The advantage of the method is a combination of vacuum evaporation and electroless deposition for the optical fiber metallization. A strong adhesion of the metal layer is achieved by the use of an evaporated thin metal layer, comprising an adhesion layer and a seed layer. The stress reduction is achieved due to electroless deposition, which is adequately thick for subsequent soldering/welding or other applications. The method comprises preparation for evaporation, preparation of optical fibers, evaporation of the thin metal adhesion and seed layer on the optical fiber, electroless deposition of an adequately thick metal layer, and acceptance testing.