Latching mechanism for optical switches
US6542653B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 12, 2001 |
| Grant date | Apr 1, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 12, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/3584
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The present invention is directed to a micro-switch assembly involving a magnetic latching mechanism. In one aspect of the present invention, it involves a micromachined structure that comprises an outer frame, an inner frame pivotally connected to the outer frame and rotates when an external electromagnetic force is applied, and a mechanism for latching the inner frame at a given angle of inclination relative to the outer frame. One embodiment of the present invention involves the use of a magnetic material, such as Permalloy, and permanent magnets to achieve the latching result. A Permalloy piece is attached to the inner frame of the micro-switch assembly and a magnet layer is attached to the outer frame. The magnetic force attracting the Permalloy piece and the magnet layer allows the latching of the two frames to occur in the absence of the external applied electromagnetic force. The use of this magnetic latching mechanism allows a reduction in the use of electric current to maintain a movable frame in a micromachined structure or a micro-switch assembly in a fixed position. It provides greater mechanical and optical stability and less energy consumption. In other embodiments, …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.