Mechanical logic using MEMS

Abstract

For many decades, transistorized logic has been the foundational design of computing, which relies on simple representations of 1's and 0's in the binary language. However, binary strings can be symbolized through other various methods besides transistors, like with techniques utilized in magnetic and optical data storage media. Utilizing microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology based on the PolyMUMPs fabrication process, a mechanical logic gate was designed to demonstrate the AND logic truth table and to provide useful work on another MEMS device. This logic gate utilizes clockwise and counter-clockwise rotations to represent binary digits, and relies on a novel sliding bar mechanism with two unique features: a flexible, gear-meshed cantilever arm and floating gear attachments. The simulated device was found to successfully operate under the assumed operating conditions of 3.02 nJ of input energy per cycle.