Electrostatically controlled variable capacitor
US6373682B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 15, 1999 |
| Grant date | Apr 16, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 15, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01H2059/0081
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical System) electrostatically operated high voltage variable controlled capacitor device is provided. This device can store high energy over a wide range while using relatively low electrostatic operating voltages. The MEMS device comprises a microelectronic substrate, a substrate signal electrode, and one or more substrate control electrodes. The MEMS device also includes a moveable composite overlying the substrate, having a composite signal electrode, one or more composite control electrodes, and a biasing element. In cross-section, the moveable composite comprises at least one electrode layer and, in most instances, a biasing layer. In length, the moveable composite comprises a fixed portion attached to the underlying substrate and a distal portion moveable with respect to the substrate electrode. The distal and/or medial portions of the moveable composite are biased in position when no electrostatic force is applied. Additionally, the MEMS device comprises insulators to electrically isolate the substrate and electrodes. Applying a variable controlled voltage between the substrate control electrode and moveable composite control electrode, controls …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.