A Novel Micromechanical Temperature Memory Sensor

Abstract
A novel, microfabricated silicon device capable of recording extreme hot and cold temperature exposures without a need for electrical power is presented. The device functions as a mechanically-induced, one-bit memory cell that utilizes the bimetallic effect in a latching mechanism consisting of two cantilever beams that overlap each other near the tips. Devices were fabricated using silicon micromachining and were tested as a function of temperature. A finite element model of the device was developed and simulations are shown to agree with test results.

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