Patent ID: 6890052
Filing Date: 2005-05-10
Classification: B41J,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A method of detecting under actuation of a micro electro-mechanical 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 and a movement sensor associated with the actuating arm, said movement sensor being activated by movement of the actuating arm to a predetermined position beyond said operating position; the method comprising the steps of: (a) passing at least one current pulse having a predetermined duration t (b) detecting for movement of the actuating arm to said predetermined position, (c) comparing the detected movement of the actuating arm with the movement of desired operation, wherein under actuation of the device is detected when the detected movement is less than the desired movement.