Positioning device for optical system element
AssigneeNorthern Telecom Limited
InventorsHerman W. P. Willemsen, Grantley O. Este
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A device for accurately positioning an optical system element uses an array of electromagnets to alter fluid pressure distribution in a mass of ferromagnetic fluid. The pressure redistribution causes movement of an optical system element positioned adjacent to the ferromagnetic fluid. The invention is concerned with particular arrangements of fluid and energizing electromagnets to ensure combined rectilinear and angular movement of the optical system elements. The device has neither the complexity nor the delicacy of known structures used for moving optical system elements.
Claims17
A device for accurately positioning an optical system element, the positioning device comprising:
- a mass of ferromagnetic fluid;
- restoration means tending to maintain the mass of ferromagnetic fluid in a stable condition with a predetermined fluid pressure distribution, the restoration means including a fixed support body contacting the ferromagnetic fluid mass;
- a non-magnetic body in contact with the ferromagnetic fluid mass;
- magnetic energizing means for energizing the mass of ferromagnetic fluid to redistribute pressure within the fluid whereby to alter the configuration of the ferromagnetic fluid and to alter the position of the non-magnetic body contacting the ferromagnetic fluid mass, the magnetic energizing means capable of moving the non-magnetic body rectilinearly along a first axis and angularly about a second axis.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.