Analysis of tip deflection and force of a bimetallic cantilever microactuator

Abstract

The authors present a model of the electromechanical performance of bimetallic cantilever microactuators by deriving the relationship between the tip deflection and change in temperature using a simple analytical approach. The model is verified by comparison with finite element analysis and published experimental data. The maximum tip force generated by a bimetallic cantilever beam is calculated by finding the reaction force needed at the tip to prevent cantilever beam deflection.