Abstract: A system and method for networking a plurality of nodes is disclosed. A network of data devices having data representations of connectivity, network node position, and/or position topologies is also disclosed, wherein the network may be self-configuring and the network nodes spatially addressable. In another embodiment, a unique form of signal acquisition assistance intrinsic in the signal structure may also be used. A data positioning device capable of operating as a node in a network of the present invention is also disclosed.

Abstract: A system and method for networking a plurality of nodes is disclosed. A network of data devices having data representations of connectivity, network node position, and/or position topologies is also disclosed, wherein the network may be self-configuring and the network nodes spatially addressable. In another embodiment, a unique form of signal acquisition assistance intrinsic in the signal structure may also be used. A data positioning device capable of operating as a node in a network of the present invention is also disclosed.

Abstract: A microactuator, or micromotor, (60) and method for making it are presented such that a symmetrical build up of material is performed on opposite sides of a substrate. This reduces mechanical stresses in the device. In its construction, respective layers of circuit portions (108, 110) are built on each side of the structure, thereby eliminating the need to stack complex patterns. Stacking one complex pattern on top of a similar pattern is difficult because the surface, which is the base for subsequent layers, is not flat. The photolithography process that forms these patterns is not very forgiving to non-flat surfaces. Avoiding the stacked layers also allows thicker conductors to be considered for each circuit. Thicker circuits increase current carrying capacity, which in one of the key variables increase the power of the micromotor.

Abstract: A microelectromechanical (MEM) device with an expanded PTFE material over the gap between movable structures to provide electrical connection across the gap and prevent particles from contaminating the gap. A microelectromechanical (MEM) device is also immobilized by placing an expanded PTFE material over the gap between movable structures. The expanded PTFE material can be made stiff during manufacture and then flexible after the manufacturing process is complete. An embodiment of the invention is a MEM device configured as a micro-actuator for a dual-actuator hard disk drive.

Abstract: A microactuator includes a base, first microactuator elements carried by the base, a platform attached to the base, second microactuator elements carried by the platform, and the first microactuator elements being located substantially symmetrically on either side of a plane along a centerline of the base