An Optical Switch Driven by Shape Memory Alloy Actuators

Introduction Optical switching provides the means for controlling light signals, which is vital in telecommunications and photonic signal processing. For a certain class of optical switches, both electrostatic and magnetic actuation is common, but each of these techniques has significant drawbacks. Shape memory alloys, however, utilize thermoelectric actuation, which provides higher force potentials than its electrostatic counterparts and simpler device integration than its magnetic counterparts. Technology Description Professor Wang at the University of Washington has developed a multi-channel optical switch that utilizes thermoelectric actuators composed of shape memory alloy (SMA). With the unique properties of SMA, thermal energy is transduced into mechanical energy and creates the driving force for an optical switch. Business Opportunity Utilizing thermoelectric actuation, this device presents an alternative to other methods of optical switching. It has significant advantages over conventional techniques and presents opportunities to advance telecommunications networks and any photonic signal processing and controlling technologies. Intellectual Property Position The UW is currently reviewing this technology for worldwide patent protection.

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