摘要 |
A MEM switch is described having a free moving element (140) within in micro-cavity (40), and guided by at least one inductive element. The switch consists of an upper inductive coil (170); an optional lower inductive coil (190), each having a metallic core (180, 200) preferably made of permalloy; a micro-cavity (40); and a free-moving switching element (140) preferably also made of magnetic material. Switching is achieved by passing a current through the upper coil, inducing a magnetic field in the coil element. The magnetic field attracts the free-moving magnetic element upwards, shorting two open wires (M_l, M_r) and thus, closing the switch. When the current flow stops or is reversed, the free-moving magnetic element drops back by gravity to the bottom of the micro-cavity and the wires open. When the chip is not mounted with the correct orientation, gravity cannot be used. In such an instance, a lower coil becomes necessary to pull the free-moving switching element back and holding it at its original position. |