Optically Controlled Switch Based On Wide Bandgap Semiconductors and Carbon Nanotubes

An optically triggered electric power switch shall be designed and tested based on technology demonstrated in the Phase I effort that was shown to be effective. Large degrees of EMI immunity and optical triggering at low light levels in the infrared region are made possible through the use of carbon nanotube technology. The device shall be compatible with fiber optic "Fly-by-Light" networks and shall carry high currents and operate at high voltage to meet aircraft actuator requirements. Wide bandgap semiconductor switching elements will be integrated with carbon nanotube optical triggering technology to construct an integrated device that is capable of meeting high temperature flight qualified operational requirements.