US Patent 7567011 MEMS linear thermoelectric motor apparatus

A thermoelectric actuator moves in a first direction and an opposite direction upon the application and removal of a current. An actuator means is driven by the thermoelectric actuator and includes a set of drive teeth. The drive teeth engage with a first set of teeth on a slider member to move it to a desired position. A spring biases the slider back to an initial position. A keeper arrangement, having teeth that engage a second set of teeth on the slider, maintains the slider in its advanced position and prevents it from going back to its initial position.