We propose a microconveyor based on silicon microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology and demonstrate successful operation of the microconveyor. Microactuators work as air nozzles, which generate directed air flow by changing the pathways of compressed nitrogen gas. One-dimensional conveyance of an object 2.1mm × 4.1mm × 200μm weighing approximately 4mg is demonstrated with a directed air flow of 17kPa. Using a two-dimensional conveyor, we levitate and move an object 3mm × 3mm × 100μm weighing approximately 2mg using a continuous air flow. Conveyance toward the force equilibrium point was achieved with a regularly pulsed air flow. We are now studying full control of two-dimensional conveyance. We also propose control by actuating air nozzles to change the direction of air flow and move the equilibrium point to transfer the object to the desired point.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.