LOCKABLE MICROELECTROMECHANICAL ACTUATORS USING THERMOPLASTIC MATERIAL, AND METHODS OF OPERATING SAME

摘要

PURPOSE: A lockable microelectromechanical actuators using thermoplastic material, and methods of operating same is provided to allow the thermoplastic material to act as a glue to hold structures in a particular position without the need for continuous power application. CONSTITUTION: A lockable microelectrormechanical actuator includes a microelectromechanical actuator(22); a thermoplastic material(20) that is coupled to the microelectromechanical actuator to lock the microelectromechanical actuator; and a heater(24) that is configured to melt the thermoplastic material to allow movement of the microelectromechanical actuator. A method of operating a microelectromechanical actuator comprises the steps of melting a thermoplastic material that is coupled to the microelectromechanical actuator to unlock the microelectromechanical actuator; actuating the unlocked microelectromechanical actuator; and allowing the melted thermoplastic material to solidify to lock the microelectromechanical actuator.