Micromechanical Signal Transmission Line Enabled by Chained Asymmetrical Bistable Elements

We report on a microscale realization of chained bistable elements that allow self-powered propagation of mechanical deformation, a key functional component in mechanical intelligent systems. Alternately jointed asymmetrically bistable elements and springs transmit cascaded snapping motion that is electrostatically initiated. Temporal measurements proved signal transmission through six series of bistable elements. Propagation speeds of$4.1 \times 10^{3}-1.8 \times 10^{4}$units/s were estimated depending on the spring stiffness,$8.2-35$times faster than previous works. The fast propagation and the small dimensions enabled by silicon microfabrication will facilitate the realization of integrated mechanical computers.