Micro-Scale Ball-and-Socket Joint

IPTeL Tracking ID: MPS-IAP-2016-084

The invention relates to design, fabrication and evaluation of a micro-scale ball-and-socket joint which enables development of advanced micro-manipulators and micro-robots.

BACKGROUND

Micro-scale joints are indispensable elements of micro-assembled structures and can be classified as fixed and articulated joints. The articulated joints enable assembly of microstructures fabricated from conventionally incompatible materials and methods. Development of active articulated joints for advanced manipulators and micro-robots has not been adequately investigated.

TECHNOLOGY

The present technology relates to an active, lockable micro-mechanism capable of rotation about two independent axes. In addition, it also relates to a method of orienting the AFM tip in the desired direction by reorienting the magnetic micro-sphere.