Actuator i.e. bistable actuator, for use as bistable optical switching component in optical network, has positioning elements for positioning ball at final position that defines switching position and comprising shape memory alloy elements

摘要

The actuator has a body or body composite i.e. permanent magnet (21), and another body or body composite i.e. soft-magnetic ball (11), that is movably arranged between two end positions of the permanent magnet. The ball is guided by positioning elements (3), where each positioning element acts in the direction of the respective end positions of the permanent magnet. The positioning elements position the ball at a final position that defines a switching position. The positioning elements comprise shape memory alloy elements (31) such as micro-structured foil strips or wires. An independent claim is also included for a method for changing switching status of an actuator.