SBIR-STTR Award

MEMS (micro electro-mechanical systems) market was supposed to make the breakthrough in miniaturization. In practice, they are limited in power and so are reduced to very simple optical uses. With this engine, a new world of applications will be available in the defense, space, communication and medical industries. We propose an engine 1,000X faster; smaller; and more powerful than electrically powered ones. Our engine can power miniature mechanical devices, opening up a world of applications now unavailable due to technical constraints of current solutions. For instance, two possible applications are micro refrigerators and mechanical actuators 1,000X smaller than electromechanical ones. A specific use for the technology we intend on developing is to power a closed cycle miniature cryocoolers, forced convection cooling loops for high power electronics and lasers and multiple use pyrotechnic devices. Anticipated Benefits/Commercial Applications: Commercial opportunities include powerful miniature medical instrumentation and "cash cow" applications such as true all-optical switches and true laser ink jet printers with five times the speed of current inkjet, for the same cost.

Keywords:
optomechanical actuator Laser Engine Optical refigerator Cryocooler

The advent of MEMS (micro electro-mechanical systems) was supposed to cause a market revolution with its breakthrough in miniaturization. In practice, this potential has not been realized chiefly due to the power limitations to which MEMS are subject. Only relatively simple applications, e.g. in pressure sensing and optics, have been commercially developed. With the laser engine described in this Proposal, a new world of applications will be available in the defense, space, communication and medical industries. For instance, two possible applications are micro refrigerators and mechanical actuators 1,000X smaller than electromechanical ones. Phase I exceeded its technical goals by confirming theoretical expectations, demonstrating feasibility, and making devices. We were also able to secure private capital for Fast Track Phase 2.

Keywords:
Optomechanical Actuator Laser Engine Optical Refrigerator Cryocooler