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Journal of Undergraduate Research

Keywords

out-of-plane, micro-mechanical mechanism, micro-electro-mechanical systems, MEMS

College

Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering and Technology

Department

Mechanical Engineering

Abstract

Much research is being done around the world in the field of micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS). MEMS are devices such as linkages, actuators, gears and motors built on a scale of microns. MEMS have many potential applications in medical science, electronics and other areas where smaller, more intricate, and more innovative solutions are continually required. Essential to the practicality of MEMS is the ability to design for predictable and reliable behavior. The extremely small size of these devices presents difficulty in realizing a design. Joining separate elements into operative assemblies is very difficult at the micro scale. A sound solution to this problem is found in compliant mechanisms. Compliant mechanisms are kinematic devices that derive their motion through elastic material deformation. These mechanisms require fewer parts than their traditional counterparts because they reduce the need for joints and other mechanical connections. Researchers at Brigham Young University are developing both theory and applications for compliant mechanisms, including compliant MEMS.

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