Patent ID: 6394617
Filing Date: 2002-05-28
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
An optical switching system, comprising:a first reflective element and a second reflective element, where the first reflecting element is opposite the second reflecting element; at least two collimators where the first collimator is proximately located to the first reflective element and the second collimator is proximately located to the second reflective element; an optical apparatus switch for receiving an optical signal from one of the optical collimators and deflecting the optical signal to another collimators, wherein the optical apparatus comprises: an arm comprising a piezoelectric material, the arm comprising a first and a second surface and a first and a second end, wherein the first surface is opposite to the second surface, wherein the first end if opposite to the second end; an optical element mounted along the first surface of the arm; a mounting element coupled to the first end of the arm for secure support of the end; at least one object with a convex surface coupled to the second end of the arm; a first magnet located opposite the first surface, in proximity to the second end of the arm; a second magnet located opposite the second surface, in proximity to the second end of the arm; and at least one electrode coupled to the arm to provide a voltage difference between the first and the second surface of the arm.