Self-stabilizing, floating microelectromechanical device
US7225674B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 30, 2004 |
| Grant date | Jun 5, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 3, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB81B2201/0235
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The present invention relates to MicroElectroMechanical Systems (MEMS), devices and applications thereof in which a proof mass is caused to levitate by electrostatic repulsion. Configurations of electrodes are described that result in self-stabilized floating of the proof mass. The electrical properties of the electrodes causing floating, such as currents and/or voltages, typically change in response to environmental perturbations affecting the proof mass. Measuring such currents and/or voltages allow immediate and accurate measurements to be performed related to those perturbations affecting the location and/or the orientation of the proof mass. Additional sensing electrodes can be included to further enhance sensing capabilities. Drive electrodes can also be included that allow forces to be applied to the charged proof mass resulting in a floating, electrically controllable MEMS device. Several applications are described including accelerometers, inertial sensors, resonators and filters for communication devices, gyros, one and two axis mirrors and scanners, among other devices. Several fabrication methods are also described.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.