Patent ID: 9064662
Filing Date: 2015-06-23
Classification: H01G,H01H

Abstract:
1. A variable gap switch apparatus comprising: a first electrode having a first gap surface, the first electrode being a metal; a second electrode having a second gap surface, the second electrode being solder formed in an initial fluid state that hardens to substantially conform to the first gap surface, the first electrode being moveable with respect to the second electrode; at least one alignment guide disposed through a via defined in at least one of the first and second electrodes, the at least one alignment rod providing substantially parallel and substantially opposed alignment of the first gap surface and the second gap surface; a piezoelectric displacement mechanism positioned to provide selective movement of the first electrode with respect to the second electrode so that a gap between the electrodes is selectively adjustable; and a vacuum chamber surrounding the first and second electrodes and the at least one alignment rod and piezoelectric displacement mechanism, wherein a vacuum is created in the vacuum chamber.