Abstract: An electrostatic loudspeaker (ESL) assembly providing curvature in two directions for improved dispersion of sound waves. The ESL comprises at least one stator panel, a flexible diaphragm and a spacer that impedes contact between the stator panel and the diaphragm. The stator is formed from a material that comprises an array of apertures. Furthermore, the material can be annealed. The material temper, along with the aperture geometry and patter, affect the stretchability of the material. The two-axis curved structure enables a compact form of ESL to be realized, including bookshelf type loudspeakers whereas all known commercial units are comparable in height to that of a human listener. The individual curved ESL panels can also be readily combined to create larger transducer assemblies including omni-directional units.

Abstract: A moving fiber optical switch of the type having two opposed supports carrying optical fibers with a gap between the fiber ends, with at least one of the supports being flexibly mounted for pivotal movement relative to the other support, and in which: (1) an actuator means, which provides pivotal movement of one or both supports between two orientations corresponding to first and second relative positions of the fiber supports, is connected to a connecting member or housing by means of a flexure; (2) the switch has means for adjusting the length of the gap between the fiber ends; and (3) the switch has means for adjusting the alignment of the optical fiber ends in a direction perpendicular to the movement provided by the pivotal movement of the flexibly mounted support or supports.

Abstract: A moving fiber optical switch of the type having two opposed supports carrying optical fibers with a gap between the fiber ends, with at least one of the supports being flexibly mounted for pivotal movement relative to the other support, and in which: