Picture element using microelectromechanical switch

Abstract

A robust microelectromechanical switch. In an illustrative embodiment, the switch is adapted for use in a display and includes a first flexible surface and a second surface. The second surface is angled relative to the first surface, forming a wedge the first surface and the second surface. A first terminal and a second terminal are positioned relative to the first flexible surface and the second surface so that selective flexing of the flexible surface electrically couples or uncouples the first terminal to the second terminal. In a more specific embodiment, the switch further includes a first mechanism for selectively applying an electrostatic force between the first flexible surface and the second surface. The first surface is positioned on a first elastic flexible layer, and the second surface is positioned on a second layer. The first mechanism includes a first actuator electrode that is coupled to the first surface, and a second actuator electrode that is coupled to the second surface. A sufficient charge differential applied between the first actuator electrode and the second actuator electrode will attract the first electrode to the second electrode, thereby flexing the flexible layer toward the second layer. The sidewalls define a perimeter of a cell that houses the switch. A protrusion extends from a third layer between the sidewalls, thereby indenting the first layer, and thereby forming the wedge.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.