A method for infrared sensing based on oscillating zero power microelectromechanical photoswitches

Journal Article · 23 June 2022 · Journal of Applied Physics

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0092412 · OSTI ID:1873791

Rajaram, Vageeswar ; Kang, Sungho ; Calisgan, Sila Deniz ; Risso, Antea ; Qian, Zhenyun ; Rinaldi, Matteo

This paper presents an interesting new method for measuring infrared (IR) radiation using a micromechanical photoswitch (MP). By leveraging the event-driven narrowband IR detection capability of an MP, electrostatic pull-in, and a novel integrated thermomechanical feedback mechanism, we show for the first time a zero-standby power IR sensor that can not only detect above-threshold IR power levels (>600 nW), but also generates an oscillating electromechanical pulse waveform whose frequency is a function of the incident IR power level. The device design, the theoretical model for the proposed idea, and the experimental demonstration of the mechanism are shown. The unique capability of zero-standby power IR detection and frequency-tunable AC waveform generation from a constant input signal (IR radiation) without the need for additional electronics promises to enable new functionalities for such remote wake-up sensors beyond simply detection, with potential uses in microrobotics and low-power computing.

• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE Advanced Research Projects Agency - Energy (ARPA-E)
• OSTI ID: 1873791
• Journal Information: Journal of Applied Physics, Journal Name: Journal of Applied Physics Journal Issue: 24 Vol. 131; ISSN 0021-8979
• Publisher: American Institute of PhysicsCopyright Statement
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English