Patent attributes
An electrostatic device (10) includes a first flexible electrode (1) on which a plurality of second electrodes (2) are mounted so as to move with the first electrode (1). Upon the application of an electrical charge, the or each second electrode (2) causes deflection of the first electrode (1) which deflection is enhanced by the movement of the second electrode therewith. A variety of different designs of the device are possible to provide movement of the first electrode in a plurality of directions and also different types of in and out of plane movement, including rotation and twisting. The structure enables the device to operate at voltage levels compatible with integrated circuits and for the device to be manufactured using integrated circuit manufacturing techniques.