Abstract: An apparatus and method for measuring the horizontal position uses a gas bubble in a bubble level. The gas bubble is in a cylindrical sealed housing that is partially filled with liquid. At least two light-emitting devices are used to illuminate the gas bubble and an inner bottom surface of the bubble level. A corresponding number of receiving devices are used to receive the light that is either reflected by the inner bottom surface or is reflected and refracted by the gas bubble. The amount of light received is translated into an electrical signal and is sent to a processing unit to calculate the position of the gas bubble. The light-emitting devices and the receiving devices are disposed in an alternating manner at the periphery of the cylindrical sealed housing.

Abstract: A valve includes: a passage having a first passage which communicates an atmosphere-communicating passage and outside of a cartridge body, and a second passage which branches from the first passage; an electrode provided on a wall surface forming the second passage; an electrode provided on a wall surface of a bottom wall lid forming the first passage; a driver IC which applies a predetermined voltage selectively to one of these two kinds of electrodes; an insulating film provided on a surface of the electrode; and an insulating film provided on a surface of the electrode. Accordingly, there is provided a valve which is capable of opening and closing a passage communicating two spaces separated from each other, which has no movable part, and which has a simple construction.

Abstract: An apparatus comprising a liquid switch. The liquid switch comprises a substrate having a surface with first and second regions thereon and a fluid configured to contact both of the regions. The regions each comprise electrically connected fluid-support-structures, wherein each of the fluid-support-structures have at least one dimension of about 1 millimeter or less. The regions are electrically isolated from each other.

Abstract: The delivery of liquid to a device, for example, a microswitch, can be achieved without the application of external pressure to the liquid by using capillary action to cause the liquid to move as desired. In one embodiment, at least one channel having a wettable surface is created that allows liquid metal to flow into a measuring reservoir without the liquid metal being pressurized and without applying other external forces on the liquid metal to facilitate its movement. A portion of the channel between the wettable channel and the reservoir is non-wettable and this non-wettable area, while allowing the metal to flow into the reservoir, acts to prevent the liquid from back-flowing from the reservoir to the channel. In one embodiment pressurized gas can be generated and applied to the liquid in the reservoir to facilitate the movement of the liquid from the reservoir to the switch cavity.

Abstract: An electronic switch comprises a substrate having a surface and an embedded electrode, a droplet of conductive liquid located over the embedded electrode, and a power source configured to create an electric circuit including the droplet of conductive liquid. The surface comprises a feature that determines a contact angle between the surface and the droplet.

Abstract: In one embodiment, first and second mated substrates of a switch define there between at least portions of a number of cavities. A switching fluid is held within one or more of the cavities and is moveable between at least first and second switch states in response to forces that are applied to the switching fluid. An actuating fluid is also held within one or more of the cavities and serves to apply the forces to the switching fluid. First and second electrical contacts are supported by the second of the mated substrates. A concentric curvilinear heater resistor is deposited on the second substrate and couples the first and second electrical contacts. The concentric curvilinear heater resistor is positioned such that it contacts the actuating fluid within one of the afore-mentioned cavities that hold the actuating fluid. Other embodiments are also disclosed.

Abstract: An electronic switch comprises a droplet of conductive liquid located in contact with a surface having an alterable surface configuration, an input contact located on the alterable surface and configured such that the input contact is in constant electrical contact with the droplet, and a micro-electronic mechanical system (MEMS) for altering the surface configuration to change the contact angle of the droplet with respect to the surface.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a switch having a channel plate and a switching fluid. The channel plate defines at least a portion of a number of cavities, a first cavity of which is defined by an ultrasonically milled channel in the channel plate. The switching fluid is held within one or more of the cavities, and is movable between at least first and second switch states in response to forces that are applied to the switching fluid. Alternate switch embodiments, and a method for making a switch, are also disclosed.

Abstract: A switch includes a switching element, a substrate, a lid and a thickfilm dielectric. The substrate has a plurality of signal conductors formed thereon, at least some of which are in contact with the switching element. The lid covers the switching element and has a perimeter that intersects at least some of the signal conductors. The thickfilm dielectric is printed on the substrate below the perimeter of the lid, and the lid is mounted on the thickfilm dielectric.

Abstract: Liquid metal microrelays may be made where a contact is formed by constraining a quantity of liquid metal at the end of a contact support suspended over a substrate. Movement of the contact support typically drags the liquid metal along the surface of the substrate and allows the liquid metal to bridge contacts located on the substrate. Coplanar waveguides may be used for the switched signal instead of microstrip transmission lines to reduce transmission line discontinuities due to impedance changes.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a channel plate for a fluid-based switch. The channel plate is produced by 1) forming a plurality of channel plate layers in ceramic green sheet, 2) forming at least one channel plate feature in at least one of the channel plate layers, and 3) laminating the channel plate layers to form the channel plate. A method for making a switch with a ceramic channel plate is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method for depositing material on a channel plate such that the material is registered to one or more channels formed in the channel plate includes filling at least one of the channels with a resist that is not wetted by the material; depositing the material on at least a region of the channel plate that includes at least part of the resist, the material registering with at least one channel edge as a result of the material's abutment to the resist; and then removing the resist. The method may be used, in one embodiment, to apply an adhesive or gasket material that is used in assembling a switch.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a switch is assembled by depositing a liquid switching element on a substrate. A channel plate is then positioned adjacent the substrate. The channel plate has a main channel and a waste chamber, and the main channel is positioned over the liquid switching element. The channel plate is then moved toward the substrate to cause a portion of the liquid switching element that overfills the main channel to be isolated from the main channel in the waste chamber. A method of switch production is also disclosed.

Abstract: Fluid-based switches and a method for producing the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, the switch comprises first and second mated substrates defining therebetween at least portions of a number of cavities, a plurality of electrodes exposed within one or more of the cavities, a switching fluid that serves to open and close at least a pair of electrodes in response to forces applied to the switching fluid, a surface tension modifier coating at least a portion of the switching fluid, and an actuating fluid, held within one or more of the cavities, that applies the forces to the switching fluid.

Abstract: A switch has a channel plate that defines at least a portion of a number of cavities. A switching fluid is held within one or more of the cavities, and is movable between at least first and second switch states in response to forces that are applied to the switching fluid. A plurality of planar signal conductors extend from edges of the switch to within the one or more cavities holding the switching fluid, and are in wetted contact with the switching fluid. Corners in paths of the planar signal conductors may be limited to greater than 90°, about 135°, or equal to or greater than 135°. In one embodiment, signal path corners are so limited, but the planar signal conductors do not extend to the edges of the switch. In another embodiment, the one or more cavities holding the switching fluid are at least partly defined by a bent switching fluid channel.

Abstract: Fluid-based switches and a method for producing the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, a switch is provided with first and second mated substrates that define therebetween at least portions of a number of cavities. A plurality of wettable pads is exposed within one or more of the cavities. A switching fluid is held within one or more of the cavities, and is wetted to the wettable pads. The switching fluid serves to open and block light paths through one or more of the cavities, in response to forces that are applied to the switching fluid. Forces are applied to the switching fluid by an actuating fluid that is held within one or more of the cavities. At least a portion of the switching fluid is coated with a surface tension modifier.

Abstract: A device and manufacturing method are provided comprising first and second substrates comprising a main channel provided in at least one of the substrates and a first connecting channel provided in at least one of the substrates and in fluid communication with the main channel. The main channel comprising spaced apart electrodes and filling the main channel at least partially with liquid metal. The method further comprising a first heater substrate comprising a first suspended heater element in fluid communication with the first connecting channel with the first suspended heater element operable to cause a fluid non-conductor to separate the liquid metal and selectively interconnect the electrodes and surface joining the first, second, and first heater substrates.

Abstract: A piezoelectric relay is disclosed in which a liquid metal droplet is moved within a switching channel formed in a relay housing. A signal path passing through the switching channel is blocked or unblocked by motion of the liquid metal droplet that coalesces with one of two additional liquid metal droplets. Motion of the liquid metal droplets is controlled by one or more piezoelectric pumps that control the flow of actuation fluid between a fluid reservoir and the switching channel. The liquid metal droplets are held in place by surface tension acting on wettable contact pads within the switching channel. The surface tension of the liquid provides a latching mechanism for the relay.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a channel plate for a fluid-based switch. The channel plate is produced by 1) forming a plurality of channel plate layers in ceramic green sheet, 2) forming at least one channel plate feature in at least one of the channel plate layers, and 3) laminating the channel plate layers to form the channel plate. Switches using ceramic channel plates, and a method for making a switch with a ceramic channel plate, are also disclosed.

Abstract: A micro-relay device is provided including a fluid non-conductor. A first substrate and a second substrate are bonded together. A channel is defined in at least one of the substrates, and has a liquid metal in the channel. Electrodes are spaced along the channel and selectively interconnectable by the liquid metal. An open via is defined in one of the substrates and contains the fluid non-conductor. A heater substrate includes a suspended heater element in fluid communication with the open via. The suspended heater element is operable to cause the fluid non-conductor to separate the liquid metal.

Abstract: A switch and method for producing the same. In one embodiment, the switch is produced by depositing a liquid switching element on a substrate, the volume of the liquid switching element being more than needed to fulfill a switching function. A channel plate is moved toward the substrate, the channel plate having a main channel with at least one reservoir fluidically connected thereto, an excess portion of the liquid switching element flowing into the least one reservoir. The channel plate is closed against the substrate.

Abstract: A switch and production thereof. The switch may be produced by (1) depositing a liquid switching element on a substrate, (2) positioning a channel plate adjacent the substrate, (3) moving the channel plate toward the substrate, the liquid switching element wetting to the channel plate, and a portion of the liquid switching element isolated into at least one waste chamber in the channel plate; and (4) closing the channel plate against the substrate.

Abstract: A channel plate is mated to a substrate to define at least a portion of a number of cavities. The channel plate is provided with a switching fluid channel, and a pair of ground channels adjacent the switching fluid channel. A switching fluid is held within a cavity defined by the switching fluid channel, and is movable between at least first and second switch states in response to forces that are applied to the switching fluid. In one embodiment, the ground channels are replaced with ground traces. The ground traces may be formed on or in the substrate or channel plate. Switching circuits incorporating one or more these switches are also disclosed.

Abstract: A volume adjustment apparatus for a switch. One embodiment of the volume adjustment apparatus may comprise a plate member sized to fit over a main channel in the switch displaces an excess of a liquid switching element from the main channel of the switch. At least one collection chamber is formed in the plate member overlapping the main channel of the switch to receive the displaced excess liquid switching element.

Abstract: An apparatus for separating a liquid in a liquid metal micro-switch. In representative embodiments, the apparatus comprises a heater and a sub-channel inside a structure. The heater is located inside a cavity of the structure onto which the liquid metal micro-switch is fabricated. The sub-channel inside the structure connects the cavity to a main channel. The sub-channel has a cross-sectional area. The value of the cross-sectional area at the boundary between the sub-channel and the main channel is less than the value of the cross-sectional area at the boundary between the sub-channel and the cavity. The gas permeates the cavity and the sub-channel and is capable of extending into the main channel.

Abstract: A microelectromechanical power relay uses mercury, or a similar liquid metal with high surface tension, as a flexible non-degrading contact mechanism. The basic systematic requirements for the micro-relay include large current carrying capacity, high speed, use of control voltages readily available in the given application, and an acceptable hold-off voltage. The preferred embodiment of the present invention includes the novel configuration of a liquid metal current carrying switching device.

Abstract: An electrode electrolyte system is provided that is capable of operating in slope sensors in a wide range of temperatures. The eletrolytic system is characterized by a stable conductivity at high temperature and by low toxicity. The slope sensor can be installed in a system containing an Nal solution in propylene carbonate, combined with platinum electrodes.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to electrical devices incorporating mesoscopically conductive liquids. The devices of the present invention include switches constructed such that in one configuration a charge carrying element, such as an electrode, is insulated from a charge receiving element by a thick (super-mesoscopic) layer of a mesoscopically conductive liquid; and in another configuration, the charge carrying elements are proximate each other and the charge is conducted between the elements by a thin (sub-mesoscopic) layer of a mesoscopically conductive liquid. Preferred embodiments of the switches of the present invention are suitable substitutes for switches, relays, or other switching interfaces.

Abstract: An electrolytic switch including an electrostatic shield is disclosed. The electrostatic shield is in the form of a ground plane external to the switch chamber. The ground plane bleeds off electrostatic charges which accumulate on the switch exterior and which would otherwise introduce performance errors in critical switch applications.

Abstract: A switch for use in an inductive energy store transfer circuit utilizes a quantity of electrically conductive liquid bidirectionally flowable between a position that establishes electrical connection between electrodes and a position that opens electrical connection between the electrodes. High pressure gas biases the liquid to a position that establishes electrical connection between the electrodes, and yieldably resists movement of the liquid toward the position that opens electrical connection between the electrodes. Current through the switch electrodes produces a magnetic force that acts on the liquid and urges it toward the position that opens electrical connection between the electrodes. Switching action occurs upon a predetermined magnitude of current being attained.

Abstract: A movable high amperage electrical switching buggy which is adapted for use in a corrosive atmosphere includes a wheeled chassis and spaced apart first and second electrical terminals housed on the chassis and extending therefrom. First and second electrical conductors are positioned within the housing and communicate with the first and second terminals respectively. At least one high amperage electrical switch is housed on the chassis with respective terminals of the switch being in electrical contact with the respective electrical conductors. The switch includes a first switch terminal including a piston chamber and a movable piston contact member housed therein and a second switch terminal. An insulating member is secured between the first switch terminal and the second switch terminal to prevent electrical contact therebetween unless the piston is in contact with the second terminal.

Abstract: In a mercury switch composed of a closed tubular glass envelope and at least one pair of electrodes extending through one end of the envelope and presenting terminals located within the region enclosed by the envelope and adjacent the one end thereof, the envelope is formed to have two indentations located opposite one another, spaced from the ends of the envelope, and spaced at a greater distance than the terminals from the one end, the indentations projecting toward one another to define, within the region enclosed by the envelope, a gap for the passage of mercury between the ends of such region.