Human-readable, bi-state environmental sensors based on micro-mechanical membranes
AssigneeQUALCOMM MEMS Technologies, Inc.
InventorJames Randolph Webster
Life of this patent
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Abstract
An environmental sensing device includes an interferometric modulator which permanently actuates, in a visually-detectable manner, in response to being exposed to a predetermined environmental threshold or condition. The device can include a reactive layer, coating, or proof mass disposed on a movable member of the interferometric modulator. The reactive layer, coating, or proof mass can expand, contract, bend, or otherwise move when exposed to a predefined chemical, level of humidity, temperature threshold, type of radiation, and/or level of mechanical shock, causing the interferometric modulator to collapse and permanently indicate such exposure.
Claims21
A sensor, comprising:
- an interferometric modulator, the modulator configured to permanently actuate in response to exposure to a predetermined combination of a first environmental stimulus and a second environmental stimulus.
A sensor comprising:
- means for interferometrically modulating light;
- means for inducing collapse of the light modulating means in response to a first predefined environmental condition;
- and
- means for ensuring that said collapse is permanent if said collapse occurs in the presence of a second predefined environmental condition.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.