Abstract: The present invention provides a bistable switch using a shape memory alloy, and a method for manufacturing the same. More specifically, the bistable switch includes a substrate having at least one power source; a flexible sheet having a first distal end attached to the substrate; a bridge contact formed at a second and opposite distal end of the flexible sheet; and at least one heat activated element connected to a first surface of the flexible sheet and between the second distal end and the power source. During operation, current from the power source passing through the heat activated element to indirectly bend the flexible sheet and short the signal contacts on the substrate with a sustainable force.

Abstract: The present invention provides a bistable switch using a shape memory alloy, and a method for manufacturing the same. More specifically, the bistable switch includes a substrate having at least one power source; a flexible sheet having a first distal end attached to the substrate; a bridge contact formed at a second and opposite distal end of the flexible sheet; and at least one heat activated element connected to a first surface of the flexible sheet and between the second distal end and the power source. During operation, current from the power source passing through the heat activated element to indirectly bend the flexible sheet and short the signal contacts on the substrate with a sustainable force.

Abstract: The present invention provides a bistable switch using a shape memory alloy, and a method for manufacturing the same. More specifically, the bistable switch includes a substrate having at least one power source; a flexible sheet having a first distal end attached to the substrate; a bridge contact formed at a second and opposite distal end of the flexible sheet; and at least one heat activated element connected to a first surface of the flexible sheet and between the second distal end and the power source. During operation, current from the power source passing through the heat activated element to indirectly bend the flexible sheet and short the signal contacts on the substrate with a sustainable force.

Abstract: A miniature gas chromatograph with thermostatically-controlled heating of its component parts which contact and conduct the sample to the analytical column. The microvalve assembly of the gas chromatograph is heated by passing a thermostatically-controlled electrical current through a metallic conductor formed on a surface of the microvalve assembly. The tubing which conducts sample from the gas chromatograph sample inlet to the microvalve assembly is heated by passing a thermostatically-controlled electrical current directly through the tubing or through a metal layer formed around the tubing. The sample inlet fitting is heated by a wire heater element wrapped around it. Each heater has an associated temperature sensor for controlling the amount of heating to maintain a predetermined temperature.