Systems and methods for micromechanical displacement-based logic circuits

Patent · Tue Dec 01 04:00:00 EST 2020

OSTI ID:1771699

Panas, Robert Matthew; Bekker, Logan; Mancini, Julie; Pascall, Andrew J.; Hopkins, Jonathan; Farzaneh, Amin

The present disclosure relates to a micromechanical displacement logic, signal propagation system that makes use of first and second bistable elements, and first and second mounting structures arranged adjacent opposing surfaces of the first bistable element. A plurality of pivotal lever arms are used to support the first bistable element in either one of two positions of equilibrium. A support structure and a compressible flexure element disposed between the support structure and the first mounting structure apply a preload force to the first mounting structure, which imparts the preload force to the first bistable element. The first bistable element is moveable from one of the two stable equilibrium positions to the other in response to an initial signal applied thereto. The preload force, at least one stiffness characteristic of the lever arms, and a compressibility of a compressible coupling element which links the second bistable element to the first, are all selected to tune signal propagation from the first bistable element to the second bistable element.

• Research Organization: Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States)
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• DOE Contract Number: AC52-07NA27344
• Assignee: Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLC (Livermore, CA); The Regents of the University of California (Oakland, CA)
• Patent Number(s): 10,855,259
• Application Number: 16/808,629
• OSTI ID: 1771699
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English