Abstract: An actuator that uses electrothermal energy to switch between a first latching position and a second latching position. The actuator contains a leaf spring capable of latching into two distinct positions and two shape-memory wires. The shape-memory wires contract when heated and direct the leaf spring toward the two latching states. Once positioned in a latching state, the leaf spring will remain latched in that position until directed toward a different latching state by one of the shape-memory wires.

Abstract: A mechanism (100) for fixing the relative position of two members including a first member (104) having a first coefficient of thermal expansion and a second member (102) positioned adjacent to the first member and having a second coefficient of thermal expansion. The first member (104) is adapted to receive thermal energy. The first and second members are mounted for relative motion therebetween at a first temperature and are in contact at a relative fixed position at a second temperature. In a specific embodiment, a microwave control valve (100) for use in a waveguide is disclosed and includes a housing (104) having a first coefficient of thermal expansion and a first plurality of housing waveguide openings (130). A rotor (102) is positioned within the housing and has a second coefficient of thermal expansion and a plurality of rotor waveguide openings (132). The housing (104) is adapted to receive RF energy.

Abstract: A coaxial microwave device, such as a microwave switching device, for example, having improved thermal and power handling characteristics. At least one thermally conductive short-circuit element is located between inner (input and output) and outer conductors of the microwave coaxial or switching device. Consequently, heat losses generated in the inner conductors are conductively channeled away from heat sensitive materials. Typically, quarter-wavelength elements provide a thermal path to reduce heat buildup, thus enabling the microwave coaxial device or switching device to operate at higher RF power levels without overstressing components or materials. However, short circuit elements having element lengths other than one-quarter-wavelength may be employed to offset mismatches in a transmission line, for example. Furthermore, the short circuit elements may be used singularly or in pairs to provide for improved thermal and power handling characteristics in the devices in which they are used.