Systems and methods for overcoming stiction
First Claim
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1. An optical routing apparatus comprising a moveable micromirror, the optical routing apparatus comprising:
- a base layer;
a stop disposed over the base layer;
a structural plate supported above the base layer by a pivot, wherein the structural plate is deflectable to contact the stop; and
an actuator disposed near the stop, wherein application of an AC voltage to the actuator causes the stop to oscillate at a frequency at or about the frequency of the AC voltage, and wherein the oscillation is sufficient to overcome stiction related forces between the stop and the structural plate.
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Abstract
A number of methods and systems for overcoming stiction are provided. The systems include electromechanical systems capable of exerting a variety of forces upon areas prone to stiction. The systems can be MEMS arrays or other types of devices where stiction related forces occur. The methods include a variety of ways of causing movement in areas prone to stiction forces. Such movement can be vibrational in nature and is sufficient to overcome stiction, allowing a trapped element to be moveed to a desired location.
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3 Claims
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1. An optical routing apparatus comprising a moveable micromirror, the optical routing apparatus comprising:
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a base layer;
a stop disposed over the base layer;
a structural plate supported above the base layer by a pivot, wherein the structural plate is deflectable to contact the stop; and
an actuator disposed near the stop, wherein application of an AC voltage to the actuator causes the stop to oscillate at a frequency at or about the frequency of the AC voltage, and wherein the oscillation is sufficient to overcome stiction related forces between the stop and the structural plate. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3)
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Specification