A Linear Displacement Bistable Micromechanism

Bistable mechanisms have proven their importance at both the macro and micro level in switches, valves and positioners. This paper examines the application of compliant functionally binary pinned-pinned segments in linear motion bistable mechanisms. The equations which govern the force-deflection characteristics of a circular-arc pinned-pinned segment are developed and then applied to create a linear displacement bistable mechanism. The results are then applied to a specific bistable micromechanism configuration that was fabricated and successfully tested.