Patent ID: 6647171
Filing Date: 2003-11-11
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
A micro-electro-mechanical-system (MEMS) optical switch actuator comprising:a reflective element assembly; a first electrode assembly for linearly moving the reflective element assembly from a first position to a second position based on a switching signal wherein the first electrode assembly includes an actuator beam, a contact stud coupled to the actuator beam and a pillar structure for supporting the actuator beam adjacent to the reflective element assembly such that the contact stud moves the reflective element assembly from the first position to the second position in response to the switching signal, wherein the pillar structure includes a single pillar architecture for supporting the actuator beam at a first end such that a second end of the actuator beam is free standing; and an anchor assembly coupled to the reflective element assembly such that a spring force is generated in the reflective element assembly when the reflective element assembly is in the second position, the anchor assembly being electrically conductive such that the switching signal generates an electrostatic force between the anchor assembly and the first electrode assembly.