Abstract: A micromechanical relay is provided having a cantilevered armature (53) which is etched out from an armature substrate (52). The armature is in the form of a tongue, is elastically connected to the armature substrate, and forms an electrostatic drive with a base electrode (58) of a base substrate (51) located underneath. In addition, a piezo-layer (60) is provided on the armature (53). The piezo-layer (60) acts as a bending transducer and forms a supplemental actuator for a quick response time. When a voltage is applied to the electrodes of the armature (53), base substrate (51) and piezo-layer (60), the armature is attracted toward the base substrate and then rests over a large area on the base, closing at least one contact (55, 56).

Abstract: A process is described for the manufacture of strip comprising a base metal substrate, a coating which has been electrodeposited on selected surface portions of said substrate and consists of precious metal or a precious metal alloy and, if desired, an intermediate diffusion barrier layer consisting particularly of nickel. The resulting strip constitutes a semifinished product for use in the making of electric contacts. When the coating has been electrodeposited, the strip is subjected to a recrystallizing annealing and to a rolling operation, preferably a cold-rolling operation.