摘要 |
<p>An improved micromechanical modulator that incorporates a mechanical transmission line for damping membrane vibration is disclosed. The modulator comprises a transmission line mechanically communicating with a vertically-movable membrane for receiving an optical signal. The membrane is supported over a substrate. Under the action of bias, the membrane moves toward the substrate, which causes a change in an optical property of the modulator. The transmission line receives and dissipates a sufficient amount of the energy developed in the membrane as it moves to prevent the membrane from vibrating. In one configuration, the modulator incorporates two strip-line transmission lines. In another configuration, the modulator incorporates two clamped-plate transmission lines. <IMAGE></p> |