An optical modulator comprising a spacing-controllable etalon having at least one sprung micro-mirror suspended above a substrate. At least one electrically insulating stop is provided between the micro-mirror and the substrate to avoid short-circuit when the micro-mirror is drawn towards the substrate by an applied voltage. An optical detector detects the time of arrival of a first laser pulse. A control circuit predicts from this an arrival time of the next incident laser pulse and, responsive to a control signal, either retains the micro-mirror in its pulled-down state held against the insulating stops or releases the micro-mirror at a time predicted to maximise or minimise the light transmitted through the modulator. After a time interval calculated to permit a predetermined number of mechanical oscillations, the micro-mirror is pulled back down onto the stops.
申请公布号
EP1946175(A1)
申请公布日期
2008.07.23
申请号
EP20060794828
申请日期
2006.10.19
申请人
QINETIQ LIMITED
发明人
SCOTT, ANDREW, MAXWELL;MCNIE, MARK, EDWARD;BRUNSON, KEVIN, MICHAEL