Control devices of the relay type

Abstract

The invention relates to devices of the relay type, but using an electrostatic force, rather than a magnetic force, for moving the mobile element. A device according to the invention allows to produce a modification in one or several controlled circuits under the control of a modification or order in an actuating or controlled circuit. The device essentially includes two control electrodes, between which a potential difference may be applied (when desired) using an electrical power source and a control switch, and an electret constituted by an insulating element carrying electrical charges of opposite signs (negative and positive charges), the electret or the algebraic sum of which is different from zero; one of the electrodes is mobile and can occupy at least two positions. The device may be applied to realize electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic or optical switchings.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.