In this book, 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 explore how light can initiate physical movement and control a variety of mechanisms that perform mechanical work at the micro- and nanoscale. The book 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.

George K. Knopf is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical & Materials Engineering at the University of Western Ontario (Canada). His current research interests include intelligent systems for design, 3D shape reconstruction, laser microfabrication, biosensor design and manufacture, optical microactuation, and bioelectronic imaging arrays. He has contributed to the development of intelligent systems for engineering design including studies on the characterization of micro geometry flaws in product data exchange, efficient packing of 3D parts for layered manufacturing, and the adaptive reconstruction of complex freeform surfaces.

Yukitoshi Otani is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical Systems Engineering at the Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology (Japan). His current research interests include optomechatronics, optical actuator and manipulator, varifocus lens, 3D profilometry by Moire topography and interferometry, scatterometry, birefringence mapping, polatization, and polarimetry. Dr. Otani has contributed to the development of novel measurement techniques in polarization engineering based on birefringence, Stokes parameters, and Mueller matrix.

Introduction to Optical Actuation. Photoresponsive Materials. Harnessing Light and Optical Forces. Optically Driven Systems. Applications of Optical Actuation. Index.