Thermal arched beam microelectromechanical switching array

Details Thermal arched beam microelectromechanical switching array Thermal arched beam microelectromechanical switching array

1999-01-19

1999-09-21

Dougherty, Thomas M.

Electrical generator or motor structure

Non-dynamoelectric

Thermal or pyromagnetic

H01H 3704

Patent

active

059558172

ABSTRACT:
A MEMS actuator is provided that produces significant forces and displacements while consuming a reasonable amount of power. The MEMS actuator includes a microelectronic substrate, spaced apart supports on the substrate and a metallic arched beam extending between the spaced apart supports. The MEMS actuator also includes a heater for heating the arched beam to cause further arching of the beam. In order to effectively transfer heat from the heater to the metallic arched beam, the metallic arched beam extends over and is spaced, albeit slightly, from the heater. As such, the MEMS actuator effectively converts the heat generated by the heater into mechanical motion of the metallic arched beam. A family of other MEMS devices, such as relays, switching arrays and valves, are also provided that include one or more MEMS actuators in order to take advantage of its efficient operating characteristics. In addition, a method of fabricating a MEMS actuator is further provided.

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