Spherical Bistable Micromechanism provides an accurate, low power mechanism for out-of-plane positioning of microelectromechanical system (MEMS). The SBM uniquely combines two recent advances in MEMS (micro spherical slider-crank mechanism and the Young Mechanism) to provide a device that achieves bistable out-of-plane positioning through the use of compliant mechanisms. Power is not required to maintain either of the two stable equilibrium positions. This reduces the power requirements, resulting in a dramatic decrease in the heat generated by the device.
Possible applications include mirror arrays, erectable structures, and optical switching and routing. The invention could be used in optical communication systems and other applications where 3-D positioning of a micro surface is valuable. This may be the first device that is able to position a device in two positions, with one of those positions being out of the plane of fabrication, without needing power to maintain either state. Unlike latching devices, the SBM is able to dynamically switch between positions.
U.S patent pending
For licensing information, contact the BYU Office of Technology Transfer.
Lusk, C.P. and Howell, L.L., “Spherical Bistable Micromechanism,” ASME Journal of Mechanical Design, Vol. 130, No. 4, 045001-1 to 045001-6, 2008.
“Bistable Compliant Mechanism,” Jensen, B.D., Howell, L.L., and Roach, G.M., U.S. Patent No. 6,215,081, issued April 20, 2001, assigned to Brigham Young University.
Lusk, Craig, “Ortho-planar Mechanisms for Microelectromechanical Systems,” Ph.D. Dissertation, Brigham Young University, August 2005.