Probabilistic Analysis and Design of a MEMS Re-Entry Switch

The probabilistic analysis and design of a MEMS switch during atmospheric re-entry is discussed. The switch is modeled as a classical vibro-impact system: a single degree-of-freedom oscillator subject to impact with a single rigid barrier. The excitation is assumed stationary, Gaussian, with prescribed PSD to represent the re-entry environment. A subset of the model parameters are described as random variables to represent the significant unit-to-unit variability observed during fabrication and testing of the device. The metric of performance is the amount of time the switch remains closed during the re-entry event.Copyright © 2005 by ASME