Optical modulator with a traveling surface relief pattern
US7054054B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 20, 2004 |
| Grant date | May 30, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 20, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B26/0825
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A variable modulator assembly includes a deformable layer adhered to a compliant layer surface, and an n-phase electrode configuration, n>2, adhered to an opposite surface of the compliant layer. A controller is configured to selectively apply a variable signal to the selected electrodes of the electrode configuration. Application of the variable signal causes the deformable layer to reconfigure to an alternated shape having distinct peaks and valleys. The distance between the peaks and valleys being determined by the value of the applied variable signal, wherein the alternated shape travels in a preferred direction. An optical modulating method includes positioning the variable modulator assembly to receive and reflect light from a light source, monitoring the reflected light, and altering the variable signal to maintain a desired output intensity.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.