Abstract
In this paper, we have developed a process for multi-step sequential batch assembly of complex three-dimensional (3-D) ferromagnetic microstructures. The process uses the magnetic torque generated by an external magnetic field perpendicular to the substrate to lift hinged structures. We found that a dimension-less factor that depends on the volume of the magnetic material and the stiffness of the hinges determines the sensitivity of the hinged microstructures to a magnetic field. This factor was used as a criterion in designing a process for sequential batch assembly, i.e., for setting appropriate differences in sensitivity. Using a dimensionless factor in the design of the sequential assembly simplified the assembly process, which requires only placing the structures on a permanent magnet, and which can be used to carry out multistep sequential batch assembly. We fabricated hinged microstructures, which consist of 4.5-μ-thick electroplated Permalloy plates and 200-nm-thick nickel elastic hinges of various sizes. In an experiment, four plates (600 μm × 800 μm) were lifted sequentially and out-of-plane microstructures were assembled in a four-step process. Assembly of more complex out-of-plane microstructures (e.g., regular tetrahedrons, 800 μm long on one side) was also shown to be feasible using this method of sequential batch assembly.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 1265-1271 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | Journal of Microelectromechanical Systems |
Volume | 14 |
Issue number | 6 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2005 Dec 1 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Batch assembly
- Elastic hinges
- Magnetostatic torque
- Sequential assembly
- Three-dimensional (3-D) microstructures
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering