Patent attributes
A method of determining under actuation of a micro electromechanical device of a type having a support structure, an actuating arm that is movable relative to the support structure between a rest position and an operating position under the influence of heat inducing current flow through the actuating arm. A movement sensor is associated with the actuating arm that is activated by movement of the actuating arm to a predetermined position beyond the operating position. The method comprises the steps of: passing a series of current pulses of varying magnitude and/or duration through the actuating arm; determining the minimum magnitude and/or duration of the current pulse required to move the actuating arm to the predetermined position, and comparing the determined magnitude and/or duration with a desired magnitude and/or duration characteristic. Under actuation is determined when the detected movement is less than the desired magnitude and/or duration characteristic.
