I-tek, Inc.

Robert L Milamed

Allen H Greenleaf

Thermal actuator apparatus for controlling or adjusting the position of a surface or other object as a function of temperature. The principle of operation is the rate of change, as a function of temperature, in the modulus of rigidity or elasticity of counterbalanced springs of differing materials resulting in a change in equilibrium position. An actuating surface is coupled to the spring system, and its movement with temperature change can be used to change or otherwise control the position of an object. A simple adjustment is also provided to permit varying thermal coefficients of the actuator (magnitude of the response to temperature change).

Thermal actuator apparatus

A method for making lightweight mirrors. The method consists of metallizing a precise pattern onto the back surface of a mirror element so as to provide a surface to which stiffening ribs or other components, such as flexure components, may readily be soldered. The method according to the present invention avoids the expense of conventional machining techniques and provides a better quality bond than is attainable by normal cementing. It also eliminates the risk of distortion and spoilage that is borne in fusing by firing to the softening point of the glass.

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Swampscott, MA, United States of America

Robert L Milamed