Coutu_Jr. R.A., Kladitis P.E.
Air Force Institute of Technology, US
Keywords: contact force, contact resistance, micro-switch, microelectromechanical systems
Electrostatically actuated, cantilever-style, metal contact, radio frequency (RF), microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) switches depend on having adequate contact force to achieve desired, low contact resistance. In this study, contact force equations that account for beam tip deflection and electric contact material deformation are derived. Tip deflection is modeled analytically using beam bending theory and contact material deformation is modeled as elastic, plastic, or elastic-plastic. Contact resistance predictions, based on Maxwellian theory and newly derived contact force equations, are compared to experimental results. Contact force predictions not considering tip deflection or material deformation overestimate contact force and result in underestimated contact resistance. Predictions based on the new contact force models agree with measurements.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 2, Technical Proceedings of the 2004 NSTI Nanotechnology Conference and Trade Show, Volume 2
Published: March 7, 2004
Pages: 219 - 222
Industry sector: Sensors, MEMS, Electronics
Topic: MEMS & NEMS Devices, Modeling & Applications
ISBN: 0-9728422-8-4