Date on Master's Thesis/Doctoral Dissertation
5-2024
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Degree Name
M. Eng.
Department
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Degree Program
JB Speed School of Engineering
Committee Chair
McNamara, Shamus
Committee Member
Harnett, Cindy
Committee Member
Mendes, Sergio
Author's Keywords
MEMS; low power; optical interference; communication; optical fiber
Abstract
This thesis discusses the use of MEMS (microelectromechanical systems) optical cavities for use in low power communication. MEMS optical cavities are thin air gaps between an actuated MEMS mirror and a fixed glass encapsulation. By moving the MEMS mirror the reflectivity of the MEMS optical cavity can be changed. This change in reflectivity can be used to transmit information passively by modulating reflected light intensity instead of generating new light using a light source. These MEMS optical cavities are demonstrated using optical fibers for illumination delivery and reflected light collection. In addition to being reflected for communication, the illuminating light can also be absorbed to deliver power, data, and a clock signal. Infrared light which is less absorbed in silicon may also be utilized for series arrays of MEMS optical cavities. A LED (Light Emitting Diode) driver for sending illumination light for power and data transmission is also designed and fabricated.
Recommended Citation
Schopp, Jacob, "MEMS optical cavities for low power communication." (2024). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 4415.
Retrieved from https://ir.library.louisville.edu/etd/4415
Included in
Electromagnetics and Photonics Commons, Nanotechnology Fabrication Commons, Systems and Communications Commons
