Importance

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Abstract

Optical energy, generated by a laser or laser diode source, is coupled into an optical fiber having core dimensions typically ranging from 5 to 200 micrometers. Overall outside dimensions of such fibers range between 50 and 500 micrometers. With such fibers, optical energy can be transmitted with minimal losses over distances of several meters to several hundred meters. Power levels of 1 to 100 Watts can be transmitted without problems. With such power available a wide variety micro machines and other miniature devices can be operated by converting the optical energy into mechanical energy through thermodynamic or photoacoustical means. Preferably transmitted wavelengths will match an absorption peak of a thermodynamic work medium thereby providing efficient conversion from optical to mechanical energy. An alternative method uses an optomechanical conversion means to generate mechanical power at a remotely situated micro machine or micro actuator. Pulsed or continuous lasers and laser diodes may be employed depending on application specifics.

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First Claim