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Optical microphone with vibrating optical element

  • US 5,262,884 A
  • Filed: 10/09/1991
  • Issued: 11/16/1993
  • Est. Priority Date: 10/09/1991
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. A transducer for converting varying acoustic pressure wave into a signal comprising a light beam made up of variable components corresponding to the varying acoustic pressure wave, comprising:

  • a. a support base having a through aperture;

    b. a flexible membrane covering the aperture, the membrane having an inner surface and an outer surface exposed to acoustic pressure wave, the membrane adapted to vibrate in response to the acoustic pressure waves being directed toward said outer surface;

    c. a beam altering optical element mounted directly on the inner surface of the flexible membrane for movement with the membrane and positioned at an optimum point relative to the membrane for intercepting the light beam, whereby the optical element vibrates with the membrane;

    d. first means positioned a first predetermined distance from a membrane for directing a beam of light toward the optical element, the optical element adapted to altering and redirecting the beam of light in varying form in response to the vibration of the membrane for receiving the altered and redirected beam of light;

    e. second means positioned a second predetermined distance from the membrane; and

    f. a fiber optic cable in communication with each of said first and second means and terminating at a position spaced a third predetermined distance from the optical element for transmitting the beam of light to and from the optical element.

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