Multi-piece MEMS Electrical Connector Assembly for Compact Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for miniaturized MEMS actuators that can fit within the size, power, and cost constraints of portable devices, imaging-related devices, and medical instruments, while providing efficient mechanical motion conversion from electronic signals.
Innovation Solution
A micro-electrical-mechanical system (MEMS) actuator with a MEMS actuation core and a multi-piece MEMS electrical connector assembly, featuring electrically conductive flexures and coupling assemblies, including latch bolts and tumbler springs, to be electrically coupled to a printed circuit board, allowing for compact and flexible integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a single-piece MEMS electrical connector is used, then manufacturing is simpler, but adaptability and ease of integration are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector is divided into multiple separate pieces (first piece, second piece, third piece) that can be independently manufactured and then assembled together using coupling assemblies. This segmentation allows each piece to be optimized for specific functions while maintaining overall manufacturing efficiency and enabling greater adaptability in integration scenarios.
2Volume of moving object
If the MEMS actuator is miniaturized to fit size constraints, then portability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is divided into distinct modular components (actuation core, electrical connector pieces, coupling assemblies) that can be manufactured separately using standard precision processes, then assembled together. This approach allows miniaturization without requiring the entire assembly to be manufactured as a single ultra-precise component, thereby reducing the overall manufacturing precision burden.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connector pieces and coupling assemblies are designed to nest within or around the actuation core, maximizing space utilization in the miniaturized actuator while maintaining proper electrical and mechanical connections. This nested arrangement allows compact integration without compromising manufacturing feasibility.
3Use of energy by moving object
If conventional actuators are used, then power consumption is higher, but MEMS actuators consume less power
Solution Approach 1:
The MEMS actuator utilizes electrostatic fields generated by applied voltages to directly produce mechanical motion through the actuation core, eliminating the need for complex mechanical transmission components found in conventional actuators. This self-service mechanism converts electrical energy to mechanical work efficiently with minimal structural complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables compact, low-power MEMS actuators that can be efficiently integrated into various devices, providing reliable mechanical motion and electrical connectivity while meeting size and cost requirements.
Implementation Method 1
electrostatic comb drive actuation system
Implementation Method 2
Each latch catch may include a tumbler spring for engaging a recess in the latch bolt. Each latch bolt may include a push spring configured to bias the latch bolt against the tumbler spring.
Data Source
AI summary
A micro-electrical-mechanical system (MEMS) actuator includes: a MEMS actuation core, and a multi-piece MEMS electrical connector assembly electrically coupled to the MEMS actuation core and configured to be electrically coupled to a printed circuit board, wherein the multi-piece MEMS electrical connector includes: a plurality of subcomponents, and a plurality of coupling assemblies configured to couple the plurality of subcomponents together.