Electrical generator or motor structure – Non-dynamoelectric – Thermal or pyromagnetic
Patent
1997-11-06
1999-10-05
Dougherty, Thomas M.
Electrical generator or motor structure
Non-dynamoelectric
Thermal or pyromagnetic
H03H 3732, H01L 3700
Patent
active
059629495
ABSTRACT:
A microelectromechanical (MEMS) positioning apparatus is provided that can precisely microposition an object in each of the X, Y and Z directions. The MEMS positioning apparatus includes a reference surface, a support disposed in a fixed position to the reference surface, and a stage defining an XY plane that is suspended adjacent to the support and over at least a portion of the reference surface. The MEMS positioning apparatus also includes at least one and, more typically, several actuators for precisely positioning the stage and, in turn, objects carried by the stage. For example, the MEMS positioning apparatus can include first and second MEMS actuators for moving the stage in the XY plane upon actuation. In addition, the MEMS positioning apparatus can include a Z actuator, such as a thermal bimorph structure, for moving the stage in the Z direction. As such, the MEMS positioning apparatus can precisely position the stage as well as any objects carried by the stage in each of the X, Y and Z directions. As a result of the construction of the MEMS positioning apparatus, the MEMS positioning apparatus can also be fabricated in an affordable, reliable and reproducible manner without compromising the precision alignment provided by the MEMS positioning apparatus.
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Dhuler Vijayakumar R.
Wood Robert L.
Dougherty Thomas M.
MCNC
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