Storing mechanical potential in a MEMS device using a mechanically multi-stable mechanism
First Claim
Patent Images
1. An apparatus, comprising:
- a multi-stable element configured to transition toward ones of a plurality of equilibrium states;
a stopper configured to restrict the multi-stable element from entering at least one of the plurality of equilibrium states; and
a first microcomponent member operable by the transition of the multi-stable element to engage with a second microcomponent member;
wherein the first microcomponent member includes an opposing pair of connector arms configured to cooperate to engage the second microcomponent member.
2 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
A system and method for storing potential energy in a microcomponent is disclosed comprising a multi-stable element having two or more equilibrium states and a stopper to restrict the multi-stable element from entering at least one of the two or more equilibrium states. The pre-charged microcomponent may then preferably be transported to another location and use the stored potential energy to perform some action.
-
Citations
26 Claims
-
1. An apparatus, comprising:
-
a multi-stable element configured to transition toward ones of a plurality of equilibrium states; a stopper configured to restrict the multi-stable element from entering at least one of the plurality of equilibrium states; and a first microcomponent member operable by the transition of the multi-stable element to engage with a second microcomponent member; wherein the first microcomponent member includes an opposing pair of connector arms configured to cooperate to engage the second microcomponent member. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 18, 19)
-
-
15. An apparatus, comprising:
-
means for moving an element between first and second low-energy states; means for stopping movement of the element toward the second low-energy state prior to the element reaching the second low-energy state; and means for coupling with a sub-millimeter object in response to movement of the element toward the first low-energy state; wherein the coupling means includes a plurality of arms, wherein ones of the plurality of arms are configured to cooperatively respond to movement of the element between the first and second low-energy states to couple the apparatus and the sub-millimeter object. - View Dependent Claims (16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 23)
-
-
24. An apparatus, comprising:
a transportable microcomponent including; a first device having first and second low-energy states; an obstructor to prevent the first device from entering the second low-energy state after transporting from the first low-energy state to past a snap-through point, wherein energy is stored in the first device when the first device is loaded against the obstructor; a linking apparatus configured to connect the microcomponent to a second device; and at least one handle configured to accommodate gripping by a micromechanical manipulator. - View Dependent Claims (25, 26)
Specification