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FTIR modulator

  • US 5,221,987 A
  • Filed: 04/10/1992
  • Issued: 06/22/1993
  • Est. Priority Date: 04/10/1992
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. A device for modulating the intensity of an optical beam comprising:

  • a first transparent refracting element having first and second surfaces and having an index of refraction greater than one, said second surface thereof being substantially flat;

    a second transparent refracting element having first and second opposed surfaces and having an index of refraction substantially equal to or greater than the index of refraction of said first transparent refracting element, said first surface thereof being substantially flat and being disposed adjacent said second surface of said first transparent refracting element;

    an electrically actuated transducer means mounted adjacent said first and second transparent refracting elements, for separating said first and second transparent refracting elements by a variable and controlled amount when said transducer means is actuated; and

    return means disposed adjacent said second surface of said second transparent refracting element for providing a force to return said first surface of said second transparent refracting element into substantial contact with said second surface of said first transparent refracting element when said transducer is deactivated by causing said second transparent refracting element to move toward said first transparent reinforcing element.

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