We demonstrate an ion pump, consisting of a nanochannel with an AC driven asymmetric electrode array. Our system enables us to actively pump ions using a low driving voltage. In all experiments the electrical double layers are overlapping. Via viscous coupling ion pumping is accompanied by liquid pumping. Actuation below 500 mV at 10 Hz results in a liquid velocity of ~10 μm/s, corresponding to...

Large arrays of 3-terminal nanoelectromechanical graphene switches are fabricated. The switch is designed with a novel geometry that leads to low actuation voltages and improved mechanical integrity, while reducing adhesion forces, which improves the reliability of the switch. A finite element model including non-linear electromechanics is used to simulate the switching behavior and to deduce a...

The present paper reports a novel manipulation method for droplets using acoustic radiation pressure and acoustic streaming. In an acoustic field, droplets deform, oscillate and move in a wide range of applied frequencies. The behavior of a droplet depends on the droplet size, acoustic field and interfacial tension between the two phases. The acoustic field is controlled by the voltage and freq...

We have developed a CMOS-compatible, in-situ micro-device to measure three important fabrication, material, and actuation parameters characterizing planarprocessed microelectromechanical (MEMS) structures: uniform in-plane overor under-cut (cut error), effective Young’s Modulus, and actuation comb-drive forces. Our only measurements are of voltage and capacitance. The device fits in a 1 mm by 1...

In this paper, a physics-based model is proposed for a biomimetic robotic fish propelled by an ionic polymer–metal composite (IPMC) actuator. Inspired by the biological fin structure, a passive plastic fin is further attached to the IPMC beam. The model incorporates both IPMC actuation dynamics and the hydrodynamics, and predicts the steady-state cruising speed of the robot under a given period...

This paper describes a MEMS RF switch designed and developed specifically for space communication systems, with a novel geometry and operating mode that overcome the drawbacks of previous devices. To avoid the need for high voltage control, the switch uses electro-thermal rather than electrostatic operation; although this requires higher power consumption during switching, a latching configurat...

In this paper, a method of strain actuation of single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) films using droplets is examined, and the physical origin of an open-circuit voltage (Voc)-observed across the film during this process-is explored. We demonstrate that droplet actuation is driven by the formation of a capillary bridge between the suspended SWNT films and the substrates, which deforms the films ...

Planetary or Orbital tool actuation is one of the process improvement techniques used in Electro Discharge Machining (EDM) process which has multi facetted advantages. In present work, an attempt has been made to study the effect of various process parameters during planetary EDM of Ti-6Al-4V; a material which is difficult and expensive to machine by conventional methods. Parameters viz. Pulse ...

The authors describe a method for biomolecular force clamp measurements using atomic force microscope (AFM) cantilevers and micromachined membrane-based electrostatic actuators. The actuators comprise of Parylene membranes with embedded side actuation electrodes and are fabricated on a silicon substrate. The devices have a displacement range of 1.8 μm with 200 V actuation voltage, and displacem...

Ionomeric Polymer-Metal Composites (IPMC) are attractive type of electroactive polymer actuation materials because of their characteristics of large electrically induced bending, mechanical flexibility, low excitation voltage, low density, and ease of fabrication. The diffusion of ions between the electrodes causes the material to bend. The unique features of the IPMC materials and their need f...