Patent ID: 6590695
Filing Date: 2003-07-08
Classification: G02B

Abstract:
A micro-mechanical spatial light modulator for modulating a polarization state of an incident beam comprising:a plurality of rotatable elements, wherein each of said rotatable element comprises an optic with a polarization optical layer; wherein each of said polarization optical layers are comprised of a plurality of optical micro-structures fabricated in a pattern with features spaced apart within sub-wavelength distances relative to a wavelength of said incident beam, wherein each of said plurality of structures interacts with said polarization state of said incident beam; a plurality of micro-motors coupled to each of said rotatable element, wherein said micro-motors are capable of controllably positioning said rotatable element to any of a plurality of positions, wherein each of said positions has a corresponding polarization state; wherein each of said polarization optical layers, are formed on said micro-motors; and a substrate for supporting each of said plurality of rotatable elements and said micro-motors.