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Moving electronic part/switch/relay - does this exist?

Phil Welch

Jan 22, 2015
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I am brainstorming an electro-mechanical project and was wondering if something like this exists: a two-state small device that switches between one position and another position when voltage/current is temporarily applied. The requirements are small (I'm thinking roughly 2-4mm square), lightweight, and low power consumption (no power consumption except when switching states). This theoretical device would be roughly 'flat' in one state and then taller in the other state (I'm imagining an unpopped vs. popped bag of popcorn).

Thank you for humoring my ignorance!

- Phil
 

shrtrnd

Jan 15, 2010
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Yeah. I don't know of anything that small. Theoretically, this sounds basically something like what a solenoid would do.
 

BobK

Jan 5, 2010
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I think what would be needed would be a solenoid coupled with some mechanics that would give the latching of two states. Something like in a click-type ball point pen. However that is very small. (particularly since it is a square, which is two dimensional :D.)

Bob
 

Bluejets

Oct 5, 2014
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Could try a small resistor tied to a piece of bi-metal ...but again...2 * 4 mm and flat at that :D

Resistor buried in a piece of pc board with a bubble of glad-wrap over the top....mm... that's it for meo_O
 

Gryd3

Jun 25, 2014
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I've seen interesting work done with piezo elements. But I can't think of a thing that would match the op's specifications...
Particularly something without current draw once the state has been set or reset.
 

BobK

Jan 5, 2010
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Actually, there are such beasts. Look up "latching solenoids". But I don't think you will find one in the size the OP wants.

Bob
 

Phil Welch

Jan 22, 2015
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Thanks to all who replied! I'll keep thinking/looking for alternate solutions :)
 

shrtrnd

Jan 15, 2010
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Considering the size required, Gryd3's idea of piezo elements sounds feasible. I'd look around, and see what might be available there.
 
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