An Application Of Mechanical Leverage To Microactuation

Preliminary results on the use of mechanical advantage to convert a short-displacement, high-force actuation mechanism into a long-displacement, medium-force actuator are presented. This micromechanical, mechanically-advantaged actuator is capable of relatively large displacement and force values. The target design values are lever ration of 17.5:1 leading to a {plus_minus}17.5 {mu}N of force throughout providing no less than 2.25 {mu}N of force throughout actuator`s range of motion for an applied voltage of less tan 50 volts. The basis for the mechanical advantage is simple levers with fulcrums.