초록 ▼

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

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.

대표청구항 ▼

[ That which is claimed is:] [1.] A microelectromechanical structure comprising:a microelectronic substrate;a heater extending between first and second opposed ends, wherein the first and second ends are disposed on said microelectronic substrate;spaced apart supports on said microelectronic substra

[ That which is claimed is:] [1.] A microelectromechanical structure comprising:a microelectronic substrate;a heater extending between first and second opposed ends, wherein the first and second ends are disposed on said microelectronic substrate;spaced apart supports on said microelectronic substrate; anda metallic arched beam extending between said spaced apart supports, wherein said metallic arched beam extends over and is spaced from said heater such that heat generated by said heater causes said metallic arched beam to further arch.