Torsion/cantilever-based MEMS bistable mechanisms with different support configurations: structure design and comparison

Abstract

Three types of torsion/cantilever-based MEMS bistable mechanisms (BMs) with different support configurations have been constructed, modeled and experimented. For the support configuration, there is a crisscross-shaped, a ring-shaped and a diamond-shaped support beam, respectively. The proposed MEMS BMs consist of a free–free torsion-based cantilever which forms a symmetrical rocker lever. The free–free cantilever is suspended by a support skeleton which in turn is attached to a torsion cantilever. A permanent magnet is attached beside for holding the closed state with a permalloy soft magnetic circuit. The different special support configurations account for a low torsional compliance with the overhanging beams. In order to deduce the equivalent stiffness coefficient of BM systems, mechanical modeling of three types of torsion/cantilever-based MEMS BMs was performed by the classical beam theorem. Meanwhile, the magnetostatic latching force was also deduced by the Maxwell electromagnetism theory. The performances of these MEMS BMs have been compared by the evaluation of static deformation variations, equivalent stiffness coefficients and dynamical switching characterizations. Finally, mechanical performance was characterized by atomic force microscopy, combined with a Nanoindentation Tester. In addition, bistabilities of the MEMS BMs were proved by theoretical analysis as well as experimental results. Among these BMs, the ring-shaped MEMS BM is extremely prone to deflect due to relatively low stiffness compared with other types. The torsion/cantilever-based MEMS BMs have potential application in the field of latching relays with low power consumption.