Ultra-compact micromirror with polymeric hard magnet for use in endoscopic imaging

An ultra-compact magnetically actuated micromirror with a polymeric hard magnetic layer on its back-side is developed for use in an endoscopic probe. This novel construction yields high deflection angles at extremely low magnetic fields which can be generated by a separate actuation coil. As no direct electrical connection is required for operating the micromirror, it can be mounted on a rotating platform and used for tubular scanning of the interior of body passageways or blood vessels.