Abstract: The present invention relates to a printer system that incorporates an electrically addressable array of micro electro-mechanical switches of arbitrary width. In one embodiment, array of micro electro-mechanical switches of arbitrary width that comprises an electrostatic array used to attract fusible toner or electrically charged ink droplets from a hopper or ink jet assembly to a piece of paper or other printable substrate. The electrostatic array uses electrostatic latching to create the charged environment to allow the toner or ink to be attracted from the hopper or ink jet assembly toward the array. A piece of paper is interposed between the array and the hopper or ink jet assembly. Additional micro electro-mechanical switches control the release of the ink droplets from the ink jet assembly. The micro electro-mechanical switches each comprise a sealed cell that relies on pneumatic restoration forces to insure that switch contacts can be successfully broken as desired.

Abstract: A cell suitable for use in a flexible display system is disclosed. In one embodiment, a display system can include a first membrane and second membrane maintained in a spaced apart relationship by a first intermediate layer that can also define cells in a matrix. Each such cell can form a pixel or a portion of a pixel in a particular display application. A third membrane can also be coupled to the first membrane, either directly, or through a second intermediate layer. Such a second intermediate layer can include a plurality of buffer structures that can maintain the spaced apart relationship when the display system is bent. Further, the first membrane can include asymmetrical slots. Also, a plurality of row electrodes may be printed on the first membrane and a plurality of column electrodes may be printed on the second membrane. When appropriate voltages are applied to the row and column electrodes, the first membrane will deflect or bend and make mechanical contact with the second membrane.