Optical Nano and Micro Actuator Technology

Book excerpt: In Optical Nano and Micro Actuator Technology, leading engineers, material scientists, chemists, physicists, laser scientists, and manufacturing specialists offer an in-depth, wide-ranging look at the fundamental and unique characteristics of light-driven optical actuators. They discuss how light can initiate physical movement and control a variety of mechanisms that perform mechanical work at the micro- and nanoscale. The book begins with the scientific background necessary for understanding light-driven systems, discussing the nature of light and the interaction between light and NEMS/MEMS devices. It then covers innovative optical actuator technologies that have been developed for many applications. The book examines photoresponsive materials that enable the design of optically driven structures and mechanisms and describes specific light-driven technologies that permit the manipulation of micro- and nanoscale objects. It also explores applications in optofluidics, bioMEMS and biophotonics, medical device design, and micromachine control. Inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers to advance light-driven technologies, this book gives readers a solid grounding in this emerging interdisciplinary area. It thoroughly explains the scientific language and fundamental principles, provides a holistic view of optical nano and micro actuator systems, and illustrates current and potential applications of light-driven systems.