Patent attributes
An optical switch for routing signals includes a latch receiver connected to a waveguide that routes the signals and an actuator that includes an upper plate, a lower plate and a latch connected to the lower plate, the lower plate of the actuator moving vertically when power is applied to the lower plate, causing the latch to move vertically and engage the latch receiver. A latching system includes a switch that includes a latch formed to include an extension on one end of the latch, the latch being driven by power, a latch receiver that is formed to receive the latch and a controller that controls the extension of the latch to engage the latch receiver when the power is applied to the latch, and controls the extension of the latch to lock in place against the latch receiver when the power is removed from the latch.
