Patent ID: 6771851
Filing Date: 2004-08-03
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
A method of switching optical signals using micro-mirror structures and control, the method comprising:selecting an optical path for a micro-mirror device, the mirror device being coupled to a torsion bar device; moving the micro-mirror device about a torsion bar device, the micro-mirror device being operated about the torsion bar device through an operating range, the micro-mirror device being subjected to a mechanical force from the torsion bar and being subjected to an electro-static force applied to the micro-mirror device and positioning the micro-mirror device to a selected switching location within the operating range to a selected region within a predetermined time; and controlling the micro-mirror device during a portion of time during the moving by receiving position signals periodically at a predetermined frequency from a sensing device coupled to the micro-mirror device, the position signals being indicative of a position of the operating range and selectively applying an electro-static force based upon one or more of the position signals such that the micro-mirror device is moved to the selected switching location to form the optical path without substantial oscillation of the micro-mirror device within the predetermined time of less than 10 milliseconds, wherein the electro-static force and the torsion force are equal to zero at the selected switching location.