Abstract: A self-contained means to move a media or component, such as fiber (12) or other miniature object, such as a lens, into a desired position is given. The fiber (12) or component is moved in various dimensions to achieve the desired location and is locked into position after the move. An input electrical signal, such as a voltage or current controls movement. A thermal actuator comprises the micro-positioner (80) using semiconductor technology in one embodiment. In another embodiment, of the present invention, a thermal or electrostatic actuator uses mechanical gears to move the fiber. Another embodiment of the present invention is implemented using mechanical technology such as microelectromechanical system (MEMS) technology. Another embodiment of the present invention, utilizes piezoelectric materials to facilitate fiber movement.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
January 25, 2005
Date of Patent:
July 4, 2006
Assignee:
Nanolign, Inc.
Inventors:
Harry Bonham, Tyler Dawson, Jay Prestipino, Grady Roberts, Rahul Saini
Abstract: A self-contained means to move a media or component, such as fiber (12) or other miniature object, such as a lens, into a desired position is given. The fiber (12) or component is moved in various dimensions to achieve the desired location and is locked into position after the move. An input electrical signal, such as a voltage or current controls movement. A thermal actuator comprises the micro-positioner (80) using semiconductor technology in one embodiment. In another embodiment, of the present invention, a thermal or electrostatic actuator uses mechanical gears to move the fiber. Another embodiment of the present invention is implemented using mechanical technology such as microelectromechanical system (MEMS) technology. Another embodiment of the present invention, utilizes piezoelectric materials to facilitate fiber movement.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
October 10, 2003
Date of Patent:
August 30, 2005
Assignee:
Nanolign, Inc.
Inventors:
Harry Bonham, Tyler Dawson, Jay Prestipino, Grady Roberts, Rahul Saini