Patent Publication Number: US-11387064-B2

Title: MEMS element fuse-like electrical circuit interrupter

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is based upon and claims the benefit of priority from Japanese Patent Application No. 2019-222325, filed on Dec. 9, 2019; the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
     FIELD 
     Embodiments of the invention generally relate to a MEMS element and an electrical circuit. 
     BACKGROUND 
     For example, a MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems) element is used in a switch or the like. A stable operation of the MEMS element is desirable. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1A  and  FIG. 1B  are schematic views illustrating a MEMS element according to a first embodiment; 
         FIG. 2A  to  FIG. 2C  are schematic cross-sectional views illustrating the MEMS element according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 3A  and  FIG. 3B  are schematic cross-sectional views illustrating the MEMS element according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 4A  and  FIG. 4B  are schematic plan views illustrating a MEMS element according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 5A  and  FIG. 5B  are schematic plan views illustrating a MEMS element according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 6A  and  FIG. 6B  are schematic plan views illustrating a MEMS element according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 7A  and  FIG. 7B  are schematic plan views illustrating a MEMS element according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 8A  to  FIG. 8C  are schematic plan views illustrating a MEMS element according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 9  is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a MEMS element according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 10A  and  FIG. 10B  are schematic views illustrating a MEMS element according to a second embodiment; 
         FIG. 11A  to  FIG. 11C  are schematic cross-sectional views illustrating the MEMS element according to the second embodiment; 
         FIG. 12A  and  FIG. 12B  are schematic cross-sectional views illustrating the MEMS element according to the second embodiment; 
         FIG. 13  is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a MEMS element according to the second embodiment; 
         FIG. 14A  and  FIG. 14B  are schematic views illustrating a MEMS element according to the second embodiment; 
         FIG. 15A  to  FIG. 15C  are schematic cross-sectional views illustrating the MEMS element according to the second embodiment; 
         FIG. 16A  to  FIG. 16C  are schematic cross-sectional views illustrating the MEMS element according to the second embodiment; 
         FIG. 17A  and  FIG. 17B  are schematic cross-sectional views illustrating the MEMS element according to the embodiment; 
         FIG. 18  is a schematic view illustrating a MEMS element according to a third embodiment; 
         FIG. 19  is a schematic view illustrating a control circuit used in the MEMS element according to the embodiment; 
         FIG. 20  is a schematic view illustrating a control circuit used in the MEMS element according to the embodiment; 
         FIG. 21A  and  FIG. 21B  are schematic views illustrating an operation relating to the MEMS element according to the first embodiment; and 
         FIG. 22A  and  FIG. 22B  are schematic views illustrating an operation relating to the MEMS element according to the first embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     According to one embodiment, a MEMS element includes a first member, and an element part. The element part includes a first fixed electrode fixed to the first member, a first movable electrode facing the first fixed electrode, a first conductive member electrically connected to the first movable electrode, and a second conductive member electrically connected to the first movable electrode. The first conductive member and the second conductive member support the first movable electrode to be separated from the first fixed electrode in a first state before a first electrical signal is applied between the second conductive member and the first fixed electrode. The first conductive member and the second conductive member are in a broken state in a second state after the first electrical signal is applied between the second conductive member and the first fixed electrode. 
     According to one embodiment, an electrical circuit includes the MEMS element described above, and an electrical element electrically connected to the MEMS element. The electrical element includes at least one selected from the group consisting of a resistance, a capacitance element, an inductor element, a diode, and a transistor. 
     Various embodiments are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. 
     The drawings are schematic and conceptual; and the relationships between the thickness and width of portions, the proportions of sizes among portions, etc., are not necessarily the same as the actual values. The dimensions and proportions may be illustrated differently among drawings, even for identical portions. 
     In the specification and drawings, components similar to those described previously or illustrated in an antecedent drawing are marked with like reference numerals, and a detailed description is omitted as appropriate. 
     First Embodiment 
       FIG. 1A  and  FIG. 1B  are schematic views illustrating a MEMS element according to a first embodiment. 
       FIG. 1A  is a plan view as viewed along arrow AR 1  of  FIG. 1B .  FIG. 1B  is a line A 1 -A 2  cross-sectional view of  FIG. 1A . 
     As shown in  FIG. 1B , the MEMS element  110  according to the embodiment includes a first member  41  and an element part  51 . A first member  41  is, for example, a base body. In the example, the first member  41  includes a substrate  41   s  and an insulating layer  41   i . The substrate  415  is, for example, a silicon substrate. The substrate  41   s  may include a control element such as a transistor, etc. The insulating layer  41   i  is provided on the substrate  415 . For example, the element part  51  is provided on the insulating layer  41   i . In the embodiment, the first member  41  may include interconnects, etc. (not illustrated). For example, the interconnects electrically connect the element part  51  and the substrate  41   s . The interconnects may include contact vias. 
     As shown in  FIG. 1A  and  FIG. 1B , the element part  51  includes a first fixed electrode  11 , a first movable electrode  20 E, a first conductive member  21 , and a second conductive member  22 . The first fixed electrode  11  is fixed to the first member  41 . For example, the first fixed electrode  11  is provided on the insulating layer  41   i.    
     The first movable electrode  20 E faces the first fixed electrode  11 . The first conductive member  21  is electrically connected to the first movable electrode  20 E. The second conductive member  22  is electrically connected to the first movable electrode  20 E. 
     As described below, for example, a first electrical signal Sg 1  (referring to  FIG. 1B ) can be applied between the second conductive member  22  and the first fixed electrode  11 . The state before the first electrical signal Sg 1  is applied is taken to be a first state (e.g., an initial state).  FIG. 1A  and  FIG. 1B  illustrate the first state. 
     As shown in  FIG. 1B , the first conductive member  21  and the second conductive member  22  support the first movable electrode  20 E to be separated from the first fixed electrode  11  in the first state. For example, a first gap g 1  is between the first fixed electrode  11  and the first movable electrode  20 E in the first state. 
     For example, a first supporter  21 S and a second supporter  22 S are provided. The first supporter  21 S and the second supporter  22 S are fixed to the first member  41 . The first supporter  21 S and the second supporter  22 S are conductive. 
     One end of the first conductive member  21  is connected to the first supporter  21 S. The first conductive member  21  is supported by the first supporter  21 S. The other end of the first conductive member  21  is connected to the first movable electrode  20 E. One end of the second conductive member  22  is connected to the second supporter  22 S. The second conductive member  22  is supported by the second supporter  22 S. The other end of the second conductive member  22  is connected to the first movable electrode  20 E. In the example, the first movable electrode  20 E is between the first supporter  21 S and the second supporter  22 S. The first conductive member  21  is between the first supporter  21 S and the first movable electrode  20 E. In the example, the second conductive member  22  is between the first movable electrode  20 E and the second supporter  22 S. 
     As shown in  FIG. 1A , for example, the first conductive member  21  and the second conductive member  22  are fine wire-shaped. In the example, the first conductive member  21  and the second conductive member  22  have meandering structures. For example, the first conductive member  21  and the second conductive member  22  are spring members. 
     As shown in  FIG. 1A , for example, the widths of the first and second conductive members  21  and  22  are less than a width W 20  of the first movable electrode  20 E. The first conductive member  21  and the second conductive member  22  deform more easily than the first movable electrode  20 E. 
     The direction from the first fixed electrode  11  toward the first movable electrode  20 E is taken as a Z-axis direction. One direction perpendicular to the Z-axis direction is taken as an X-axis direction. A direction perpendicular to the Z-axis direction and the X-axis direction is taken as a Y-axis direction. 
     In the example, the direction from the first conductive member  21  toward the second conductive member  22  is along the X-axis direction. The distance (the length in the Z-axis direction) between the first fixed electrode  11  and the first movable electrode  20 E is changeable according to the potential difference between the first fixed electrode  11  and the first movable electrode  20 E. The first movable electrode  20 E is displaceable when referenced to the first fixed electrode  11 . 
     A first terminal T 1  and a second terminal T 2  may be provided as shown in  FIG. 1B . The first terminal T 1  is electrically connected to the first conductive member  21 . The second terminal T 2  is electrically connected to the second conductive member  22 . For example, a current can flow between the first terminal T 1  and the second terminal T 2  in the first state. At this time, the MEMS element  110  is in a conducting state (e.g., an on-state). As described below, the first conductive member  21  and the second conductive member  22  can be broken. In such a case, a current does not flow between the first terminal T 1  and the second terminal T 2 . At this time, the MEMS element  110  is in a nonconducting state (e.g., an off-state). 
     In the on-state, for example, a current can flow in a first current path  21   cp  including the first conductive member  21  and the first movable electrode  20 E (referring to  FIG. 1A ). In the on-state, for example, a current can flow in a second current path  22   cp  including the second conductive member  22  and the first movable electrode  20 E (referring to  FIG. 1A ). 
     The MEMS element  110  can function as a normally-on switch element. 
     The element part  51  may include a first capacitance element  31 . For example, the first capacitance element  31  is electrically connected to the first conductive member  21 . In the example, the first capacitance element  31  is electrically connected to the first terminal T 1 . The electrical connection to the first capacitance element  31  can be controlled by controlling the on-state or the off-state of the element part  51 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 1B , for example, a controller  70  may be provided. For example, the controller  70  is electrically connected to a first control terminal Tc 1  and the second terminal T 2 . The first control terminal Tc 1  is electrically connected to the first fixed electrode  11 . The first electrical signal Sg 1  can be applied between the second conductive member  22  and the first fixed electrode  11  by the controller  70 . The first electrical signal Sg 1  includes at least one of a voltage signal or a current signal. 
     For example, the potential of the second conductive member  22  (e.g., the potential of the second terminal T 2 ) is fixed, and the potential of the first fixed electrode  11  is controllable by the controller  70 . In the embodiment, the potential of the first fixed electrode  11  may be substantially fixed, and the potential of the second conductive member  22  may be controllable by the controller  70 . Hereinbelow, one example will be described in which the potential of the second conductive member  22  (e.g., the potential of the second terminal T 2 ) is fixed. In such a case, the potential of the first fixed electrode  11  is controlled by the controller  70 . The polarity of the potential difference between the second conductive member  22  and the first fixed electrode  11  is arbitrary. 
     In the first state, the potential of the first movable electrode  20 E is substantially equal to the potential of the second conductive member  22 . The potential difference between the first fixed electrode  11  and the first movable electrode  20 E is changed by changing the potential of the first fixed electrode  11 . For example, the distance between the first movable electrode  20 E and the first fixed electrode  11  decreases as the potential difference increases. For example, this is based on an electrostatic force. When the potential difference becomes large, the first movable electrode  20 E contacts the first fixed electrode  11 , and a current can flow in the conductive member via the first movable electrode  20 E and the first fixed electrode  11 . The conductive member can be broken thereby. The first state before breaking and the second state after breaking can be formed thereby. The phenomenon of the first movable electrode  20 E and the first fixed electrode  11  contacting is called “pull-in” or “pull-down”. The voltage that generates “pull-in” or “pull-down” is called the “pull-in voltage” or the “pull-down voltage”. 
     For example, the element part  51  of the MEMS element  110  can function as a OTP (One Time Programmable) element. 
     For example, the rigidity of the first conductive member  21  may be different from the rigidity of the second conductive member  22 . For example, the rigidity of the first conductive member  21  may be less than the rigidity of the second conductive member  22 . For example, the first conductive member  21  and the second conductive member  22  are mutually-asymmetric. For example, by such a configuration, the first movable electrode  20 E easily changes to a tilted state when the first movable electrode  20 E approaches the first fixed electrode  11 . The first movable electrode  20 E may approach the first fixed electrode  11  in a tilted state. 
     An example of a transition from the first state to the second state will now be described. 
       FIG. 2A  to  FIG. 2C ,  FIG. 3A  and  FIG. 3B  are schematic cross-sectional views illustrating the MEMS element according to the first embodiment. 
     These drawings illustrate the change of the element part  51  when the first electrical signal Sg 1  is applied between the second conductive member  22  and the first fixed electrode  11 . As described above, the first electrical signal Sg 1  is supplied by the controller  70 . 
     In the first state ST 1  shown in  FIG. 2A , the first electrical signal Sg 1  is not applied between the second conductive member  22  and the first fixed electrode  11 . For example, the second conductive member  22  and the first fixed electrode  11  are in a floating state FLT. At this time, the first movable electrode  20 E is separated from the first fixed electrode  11 . In such a first state ST 1 , a current can flow between the first terminal T 1  and the second terminal T 2 . The element part  51  is in the conducting state (the on-state) in the first state ST 1 . In the first state ST 1 , the potential difference between the second conductive member  22  and the first fixed electrode  11  may be less than the pull-in voltage. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2B , for example, the second terminal T 2  (the second conductive member  22 ) is set to a ground potential V 0 , and the first electrical signal Sg 1  is applied to the first fixed electrode  11 . Thereby, the first movable electrode  20 E is caused to approach the first fixed electrode  11 . For example, the first movable electrode  20 E tilts easily when the first conductive member  21  and the second conductive member  22  are asymmetric. For example, compared to an end portion  20 Eq at the second conductive member  22  side of the first movable electrode  20 E, an end portion  20 Ep at the first conductive member  21  side of the first movable electrode  20 E approaches the first fixed electrode  11 . An electric field concentrates at the end portion  20 Ep at the first conductive member  21  side of the first movable electrode  20 E and an end portion  21   p  at the first movable electrode  20 E side of the first conductive member  21 . For example, the end portion  21   p  contacts the first fixed electrode  11 . For example, the end portion  20 Ep contacts the first fixed electrode  11 . Thereby, the temperature easily rises locally at the end portions  20 Ep and  21   p . For example, the rise of the temperature is due to Joule heat. 
     The first conductive member  21  breaks when the temperature of at least one of the end portion  20 Ep or the end portion  21   p  rises locally. As shown in  FIG. 2B , a break portion  21 B occurs in the first conductive member  21 . The first conductive member  21  is divided at the break portion  21 B. 
     For example, as shown in  FIG. 1A , a portion of the first conductive member  21  may overlap the first fixed electrode  11  in the Z-axis direction. For example, when a portion of the first conductive member  21  overlaps the first fixed electrode  11  in the Z-axis direction, the portion (the end portion  21   p ) of the first conductive member  21  easily contacts the first fixed electrode  11  when the first movable electrode  20 E approaches the first fixed electrode  11 . For example, a current locally flows between the first fixed electrode  11  and the portion (the end portion  21   p ) of the first conductive member  21 . The first conductive member  21  is broken more stably by the current concentrating at the portion (the end portion  21   p ) of the first conductive member  21 . For example, the mechanical rigidity of the first conductive member  21  is less than the mechanical rigidity of the first movable electrode  20 E. Thereby, the end portion  21   p  easily contacts the first fixed electrode  11 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 2C , the broken first conductive member  21  may approach the state of  FIG. 2A . For example, this is due to the restoring force due to the elasticity of the first conductive member  21 . As shown in  FIG. 2C , the end portion  20 Ep of the first movable electrode  20 E is separated from the first conductive member  21 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 3A , substantially the entire first movable electrode  20 E may contact the first fixed electrode  11  when the application of the first electrical signal Sg 1  is continued. This state is, for example, the pull-down state. When the first movable electrode  20 E contacts the first fixed electrode  11 , there are cases where the first movable electrode  20 E is adhered to the first fixed electrode  11 , and the first movable electrode  20 E substantially does not separate from the first fixed electrode  11 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 3A , when the application of the first electrical signal Sg 1  is continued, the temperature of the second conductive member  22  rises, and the second conductive member  22  breaks. For example, the rise of the temperature is due to Joule heat. A break portion  22 B occurs. The second conductive member  22  is divided at the break portion  22 B. For example, the break portion  22 B is formed at the vicinity of the end portion of the second conductive member  22  at the first movable electrode  20 E side. The application of the first electrical signal Sg 1  ends. 
     Subsequently, as shown in  FIG. 3B , the broken second conductive member  22  may approach the state of  FIG. 2A . For example, this is due to the restoring force due to the elasticity of the second conductive member  22 . As shown in  FIG. 3B , the end portion  20 Eq of the first movable electrode  20 E is separated from the second conductive member  22 . 
     A second state ST 2  shown in  FIG. 3B  is a state after the first electrical signal Sg 1  is applied between the second conductive member  22  and the first fixed electrode  11 . For example, in the second state ST 2 , the first fixed electrode  11  is in, for example, the floating state FLT. The broken states of the first and second conductive members  21  and  22  continue even after the application of the first electrical signal Sg 1  has ended. A current does not flow between the first terminal T 1  and the second terminal T 2  in the second state ST 2 . The element part  51  is in the nonconducting state (the off-state) in the second state ST 2 . For example, in the second state ST 2 , the second conductive member  22  is in, for example, the floating state FLT. Or, in the second state ST 2 , the potential of the second conductive member  22  may have the potential of a circuit connected to the second conductive member  22 . 
     Thus, in the embodiment, both the first conductive member  21  and the second conductive member  22  are in a broken state in the second state ST 2  after the first electrical signal Sg 1  is applied between the second conductive member  22  and the first fixed electrode  11 . For, example, the first conductive member  21  is in a first broken state in the second broken state in the second state ST 2  and the second conductive member  22  is in the second broken state in the second state ST 2 . The current that flows between the first terminal T 1  and the second terminal T 2  can be stably blocked thereby. 
     A reference example may be considered in which one of the first conductive member  21  or the second conductive member  22  is broken. For example, in a first reference example, the second conductive member  22  side of the first movable electrode  20 E contacts the first fixed electrode  11  when the first electrical signal Sg 1  is applied to the first fixed electrode  11 . In such a case, the second conductive member  22  is broken by the Joule heat due to the current of the first electrical signal Sg 1 . On the other hand, the other end (the first terminal T 1 ) of the first conductive member  21  is floating. Therefore, when the first electrical signal Sg 1  is applied to the first fixed electrode  11 , a current does not flow in the first conductive member  21 , and the first conductive member  21  is not broken. In such a first reference example as well, the current that flows between the first terminal T 1  and the second terminal T 2  can be blocked. 
     In the first reference example after the second conductive member  22  is broken, the first terminal T 1  is electrically connected to the first fixed electrode  11  via the first conductive member  21  and the first movable electrode  20 E. For example, when a transistor that controls the application of the first electrical signal Sg 1  to the first fixed electrode  11  or the like is connected to the first fixed electrode  11 , the parasitic capacitance of the transistor remains even after the application of the first electrical signal Sg 1  is ended. The parasitic capacitance of the transistor affects the capacitance of the first terminal T 1 . In the first reference example, such an unnecessary capacitance remains in the element part  51 . The remaining capacitance easily causes unstable electrical characteristics of the off-state of the element part  51  functioning as a switch. For example, when the signal of the circuit in which the element part  51  is embedded has a high frequency, the remaining capacitance makes the characteristics of the element part  51  unstable. 
     In the embodiment, the first conductive member  21  and the second conductive member  22  are in a broken state in the second state ST 2 . Therefore, the first terminal T 1  is separated from the first fixed electrode  11  and the parasitic capacitance of the transistor. The electrical characteristics of the element part  51  in the off-state are stabilized thereby. Stable characteristics can be maintained even for high frequency switching. According to the embodiment, a MEMS element can be provided in which a stable operation is possible. 
     In the embodiment, for example, the first conductive member  21  breaks when the first electrical signal Sg 1  is applied between the second conductive member  22  and the first fixed electrode  11 . Continuing, the second conductive member  22  also is broken by continuing the application of the first electrical signal Sg 1 . Or, the application of the first electrical signal Sg 1  can be ended after the first conductive member  21  has broken and before the second conductive member  22  has broken. However, the first electrical signal Sg 1  may not be ended partway because the second conductive member  22  can be broken by continuing the application of the first electrical signal Sg 1 . 
     In the description recited above, the first electrical signal Sg 1  is applied between the second conductive member  22  and the first fixed electrode  11 . In the embodiment, the first electrical signal Sg 1  may be applied between the first conductive member  21  and the first fixed electrode  11 . In such a case, the first movable electrode  20 E is caused to tilt so that the distance between the first fixed electrode  11  and the end portion at the second conductive member  22  side of the first movable electrode  20 E is less than the distance between the first fixed electrode  11  and the end portion at the first conductive member  21  side of the first movable electrode  20 E. Because the first movable electrode  20 E approaches the first fixed electrode  11  in the tilted state, both the first conductive member  21  and the second conductive member  22  are in a broken state in the second state ST 2  after the first electrical signal Sg 1  is applied. 
     As recited above, both of two conductive members can easily be broken by the first movable electrode  20 E approaching the first fixed electrode  11  in the tilted state. For example, when one of the first conductive member  21  or the second conductive member  22  will become proximate to the first fixed electrode  11 , the first electrical signal Sg 1  is applied between the first fixed electrode  11  and the other of the first conductive member  21  or the second conductive member  22 . The conductive member to which the first electrical signal Sg 1  is applied may be selected to match the tilt direction. 
     In the embodiment, for example, the first movable electrode  20 E is tilted more easily by setting the mechanical rigidities of the two conductive members to be asymmetric. For example, the distance between the first movable electrode  20 E and the first fixed electrode  11  in the first state ST 1  may be different between the first conductive member  21  side and the second conductive member  22  side. Thereby, it is easier for the first movable electrode  20 E to approach the first fixed electrode  11  in a state in which the distance between the first movable electrode  20 E and the first fixed electrode  11  is nonuniform. For example, a protrusion or the like may be provided in the lower surface of the end portion  20 Ep of the first movable electrode  20 E or the upper surface of an end portion  11   p  of the first fixed electrode  11 . Even in such a case, the first conductive member  21  and the second conductive member  22  break more easily in the second state ST 2 . For example, the surface area of the portion at which the first movable electrode  20 E and the first fixed electrode  11  face each other may be different between the first conductive member  21  side and the second conductive member  22  side. 
     As shown in  FIG. 1B , for example, the direction from the first fixed electrode  11  toward the first movable electrode  20 E is taken as a first direction. The first direction corresponds to the Z-axis direction. At least one of a portion of the first conductive member  21  or a portion of the second conductive member  22  may overlap the first fixed electrode  11  in the first direction. When a portion of the first conductive member  21  overlaps the first fixed electrode  11 , a large current flows locally between the portion (e.g., the end portion  21   p  illustrated in  FIG. 2B ) of the first conductive member  21  and the end portion  11   p  of the first fixed electrode  11  (referring to  FIG. 1B ). The first conductive member  21  is broken more easily thereby. On the other hand, when a portion of the second conductive member  22  overlaps the first fixed electrode  11 , a large current flows locally between the end portion of the portion of the second conductive member  22  and the end portion  11   p  of the first fixed electrode  11 . The second conductive member  22  is broken more easily thereby. 
     In the embodiment as described above, for example, a current can flow between the first movable electrode  20 E and the first fixed electrode  11  when the first electrical signal Sg 1  is applied between the second conductive member  22  and the first fixed electrode  11 . For example, the first movable electrode  20 E contacts the first fixed electrode  11  when the first electrical signal Sg 1  is applied between the second conductive member  22  and the first fixed electrode  11 . 
     Several examples of configurations in which the first conductive member  21  and the second conductive member  22  break more easily will now be described. 
       FIG. 4A  and  FIG. 4B  are schematic plan views illustrating a MEMS element according to the first embodiment. 
     These drawings illustrate a portion of the MEMS element  111  according to the embodiment.  FIG. 4A  illustrates the first conductive member  21 .  FIG. 4B  illustrates the second conductive member  22 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 4A , the first conductive member  21  has a first length along the first current path  21   cp  including the first conductive member  21  and the first movable electrode  20 E. The first length corresponds to the sum of lengths L 11  to L 17 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 4B , the second conductive member  22  has a second length along the second current path  22   cp  including the second conductive member  22  and the first movable electrode  20 E. The second length corresponds to the sum of lengths L 21  to L 27 . 
     In the example, the second length is less than the first length. In such a case, the rigidity of the first conductive member  21  is less than the rigidity of the second conductive member  22 . The characteristics of the first conductive member  21  and the characteristics of the second conductive member  22  are made asymmetric thereby. 
       FIG. 5A  and  FIG. 5B  are schematic plan views illustrating a MEMS element according to the first embodiment. 
     These drawings illustrate a portion of the MEMS element  112  according to the embodiment.  FIG. 5A  illustrates the first conductive member  21 .  FIG. 5B  illustrates the second conductive member  22 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 5A , the first conductive member  21  has a first width W 1 . The first width W 1  is the length of the first conductive member  21  in a direction Dp 1  perpendicular to the first current path  21   cp  including the first conductive member  21  and the first movable electrode  20 E. The first width W 1  may be the thickness (the length along the Z-axis direction). 
     As shown in  FIG. 5B , the second conductive member  22  has a second width W 2 . The second width W 2  is the length of the second conductive member  22  in a direction Dp 2  perpendicular to the second current path  22   cp  including the second conductive member  22  and the first movable electrode  20 E. The second width W 2  may be the thickness (the length along the Z-axis direction). 
     In the example, the second width W 2  is greater than the first width W 1 . In such a case, the rigidity of the first conductive member  21  is less than the rigidity of the second conductive member  22 . Thereby, the characteristics of the first conductive member  21  are asymmetric with the characteristics of the second conductive member  22 . 
     Thus, the second conductive member  22  may have at least one of the second length that is less than the first length, or the second width W 2  that is greater than the first width W 1 . For example, the rigidity of the first conductive member  21  is less than the rigidity of the second conductive member  22 . The characteristics of the first conductive member  21  are asymmetric with the characteristics of the second conductive member  22 . 
     In the embodiment, the melting point of at least a portion of the first conductive member  21  may be different from the melting point of at least a portion of the second conductive member  22 . In the embodiment, the electrical resistance of the first conductive member  21  may be different from the electrical resistance of the second conductive member  22 . 
       FIG. 6A  and  FIG. 6B  are schematic plan views illustrating a MEMS element according to the first embodiment. 
     These drawings illustrate a portion of the MEMS element  113  according to the embodiment.  FIG. 6A  illustrates the first conductive member  21 .  FIG. 6B  illustrates the second conductive member  22 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 6A , the first conductive member  21  may include a first notch portion  21   n  and a first non-notch portion  21   u . For example, the direction from the first notch portion  21   n  toward the first non-notch portion  21   u  is along the first current path  21   cp  including the first conductive member  21  and the first movable electrode  20 E. 
     A length Wn 1  of the first notch portion  21   n  along a first cross direction Dx 1  perpendicular to the first current path  21   cp  is less than a length Wu 1  of the first non-notch portion  21   u  along the first cross direction Dx 1 . The first conductive member  21  easily breaks at the first notch portion  21   n.    
     For example, it is favorable for the first notch portion  21   n  to be provided proximate to the first movable electrode  20 E. Thereby, the first notch portion  21   n  breaks more easily when a portion of the first movable electrode  20 E contacts the first fixed electrode  11 . The distance between the first notch portion  21   n  and the first movable electrode  20 E is short. For example, the distance between the first notch portion  21   n  and the first movable electrode  20 E is not more than ½ of the first length of the first conductive member  21  along the first current path  21   cp  including the first conductive member  21  and the first movable electrode  20 E (the sum of the lengths L 11  to L 17  of  FIG. 4A ). The distance between the first notch portion  21   n  and the first movable electrode  20 E may be not more than 1/10 of the first length. The distance between the first notch portion  21   n  and the first movable electrode  20 E may be not more than 1/20 of the first length. The first conductive member  21  breaks more easily. 
     As shown in  FIG. 6B , the second conductive member  22  includes a second notch portion  22   n  and a second non-notch portion  22   u . The direction from the second notch portion  22   n  toward the second non-notch portion  22   u  is along the second current path  22   cp  including the second conductive member  22  and the first movable electrode  20 E. A length Wn 2  of the second notch portion  22   n  along a second cross direction Dx 2  perpendicular to the second current path  22   cp  is less than a length Wu 2  of the second non-notch portion  22   u  along the second cross direction Dx 2 . The second conductive member  22  breaks more easily due to such a second notch portion  22   n.    
       FIG. 7A  and  FIG. 7B  are schematic plan views illustrating a MEMS element according to the first embodiment. 
     These drawings illustrate a portion of the MEMS element  114  according to the embodiment.  FIG. 7A  illustrates the first conductive member  21 .  FIG. 7B  illustrates the second conductive member  22 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 7A , the first conductive member  21  includes the first notch portion  21   n  and the first non-notch portion  21   u . The length Wn 1  of the first notch portion  21   n  is less than the length Wu 1  of the first non-notch portion  21   u . In the MEMS element  114 , the first notch portion  21   n  overlaps the end portion  11   p  of the first fixed electrode  11  in the first direction (the Z-axis direction), which is from the first fixed electrode  11  toward the first movable electrode  20 E. The first notch portion  21   n  breaks more easily. 
     As shown in  FIG. 7B , the second conductive member  22  includes the second notch portion  22   n  and the second non-notch portion  22   u . The length Wn 2  of the second notch portion  22   n  is less than the length Wu 2  of the second non-notch portion  22   u . In the MEMS element  114 , the second notch portion  22   n  overlaps an end portion  11   q  of the first fixed electrode  11  in the first direction (the Z-axis direction), which is from the first fixed electrode  11  toward the first movable electrode  20 E. The second notch portion  22   n  breaks more easily. 
     In the embodiment, the breakage of the first and second conductive members  21  and  22  is performed by, for example, a local temperature increase. In such a case, the compositions, etc., of these conductive members may change. Such examples will now be described. 
       FIG. 8A  to  FIG. 8C  are schematic plan views illustrating the MEMS element according to the first embodiment. 
     In the second state ST 2  as shown in  FIG. 8A , the break portion  21 B of the first conductive member  21  is formed, and the break portion  22 B is formed in the second conductive member  22 .  FIG. 8B  illustrates the break portion  21 B.  FIG. 8C  illustrates the break portion  22 B. 
     In the second state ST 2  as shown in  FIG. 8B , the first conductive member  21  includes a first portion p 1  and a second portion p 2 . The distance between the break portion  21 B and the first portion p 1  of the first conductive member  21  is greater than the distance between the break portion  21 B and the second portion p 2  of the first conductive member  21 . The second portion p 2  is proximate to the break portion  21 B. The first portion p 1  is far from the break portion  21 B. For example, there are cases where the color or the like of the second portion p 2  is different from that of the first portion p 1  due to a high temperature, etc. For example, the second portion p 2  may have at least one of a different light reflectance from the light reflectance of the first portion p 1 , a different color from the color of the first portion p 1 , a different unevenness from the unevenness of the first portion p 1 , a different composition from the composition of the first portion p 1 , or a different oxygen concentration from the oxygen concentration included in the first portion p 1 . There are cases where differences occur between the first portion p 1  and the second portion p 2  such as those recited above when the break occurs due to the effects of heat, etc. 
     In the second state ST 2  as shown in  FIG. 8C , the second conductive member  22  includes a third portion p 3  and a fourth portion p 4 . The distance between the break portion  22 B and the third portion p 3  of the second conductive member  22  is greater than the distance between the break portion  22 B and the fourth portion p 4  of the second conductive member  22 . The fourth portion p 4  is proximate to the break portion  22 B. The third portion p 3  is far from the break portion  22 B. For example, the fourth portion p 4  may have at least one of a different light reflectance from the light reflectance of the third portion p 3 , a different color from the color of the third portion p 3 , a different unevenness from the unevenness of the third portion p 3 , a different composition from the composition of the third portion p 3 , or a different oxygen concentration from the oxygen concentration included in the third portion p 3 . There are cases where differences between the third portion p 3  and the fourth portion p 4  occur such as those recited above when the breakage occurs due to the effects of heat, etc. 
       FIG. 9  is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a MEMS element according to the first embodiment. 
       FIG. 9  illustrates the MEMS element  118  according to the embodiment.  FIG. 9  illustrates the first state ST 1 . As shown in  FIG. 9 , the MEMS element  118  further includes a second member  42  in addition to the element part  51 . The first fixed electrode  11  and the first movable electrode  20 E are between the first member  41  and the second member  42 . In the first state ST 1 , the first gap g 1  is between the first fixed electrode  11  and the first movable electrode  20 E. In the first state ST 1 , a second gap g 2  is between the first movable electrode  20 E and the second member  42 . 
     The second member  42  is, for example, a cap. The first movable electrode  20 E can be displaced along the Z-axis direction due to the first and second gaps g 1  and g 2 . For example, the first gap g 1  and the second gap g 2  may be in a reduced-pressure state. For example, an inert gas may be introduced to the first and second gaps g 1  and g 2 . 
     For example, the first member  41  may include a control circuit part  41   t . The control circuit part  41   t  includes, for example, a switching element such as a transistor, etc. The application of the first electrical signal Sg 1  to the first fixed electrode  11  may be controlled by the control circuit part  41   t.    
     Second Embodiment 
       FIG. 10A  and  FIG. 10B  are schematic views illustrating a MEMS element according to a second embodiment. 
       FIG. 10A  is a plan view as viewed along arrow AR 2  of  FIG. 10B .  FIG. 10B  is a line B 1 -B 2  cross-sectional view of  FIG. 10A . 
     As shown in  FIG. 10B , the MEMS element  120  according to the embodiment also includes the first member  41  and the element part  51 . In the MEMS element  120 , the element part  51  includes a second fixed electrode  12  in addition to the first fixed electrode  11 , the first movable electrode  20 E, the first conductive member  21 , and the second conductive member  22 . The configurations of the first fixed electrode  11 , the first movable electrode  20 E, the first conductive member  21 , and the second conductive member  22  in the MEMS element  120  may be similar to these configurations in the first embodiment. The second fixed electrode  12  will now be described. 
     As shown in  FIG. 10B , the second fixed electrode  12  is fixed to the first member  41 . The first movable electrode  20 E includes a first electrode region  20 Ea and a second electrode region  20 Eb. The distance between the first electrode region  20 Ea and the first conductive member  21  is less than the distance between the second electrode region  20 Eb and the first conductive member  21 . The first electrode region  20 Ea is the region at the first conductive member  21  side. The second electrode region  20 Eb is the region at the second conductive member  22  side. 
     The first electrode region  20 Ea faces the first fixed electrode  11 . The second electrode region  20 Eb faces the second fixed electrode  12 . 
     For example, the controller  70  can be electrically connected to the first fixed electrode  11  via the first control terminal Tc 1 . The controller  70  can be electrically connected to the second fixed electrode  12  via a second control terminal Tc 2 . In the example, the controller  70  is electrically connected to the second conductive member  22  via the second terminal T 2 . For example, a second electrical signal Sg 2  can be applied between the second conductive member  22  and the second fixed electrode  12  by the controller  70 . 
       FIG. 10B  corresponds to the first state ST 1 . The first state ST 1  is the state before the second electrical signal Sg 2  is applied between the second conductive member  22  and the second fixed electrode  12 . In the first state ST 1 , the first conductive member  21  and the second conductive member  22  support the first movable electrode  20 E to be separated from the second fixed electrode  12 . In the first state ST 1  as described above, the first conductive member  21  and the second conductive member  22  support the first movable electrode  20 E to be separated from the first fixed electrode  11 . 
     For example, the second state ST 2  is the state after the second electrical signal Sg 2  is applied between the second conductive member  22  and the second fixed electrode  12 . As described below, in the second state ST 2 , the first conductive member  21  and the second conductive member  22  are in a broken state. 
     As described below, the first conductive member  21  and the second conductive member  22  can be broken more stably by providing the first fixed electrode  11  and the second fixed electrode  12  in the MEMS element  120 . In the second embodiment as well, a MEMS element can be provided in which a stable operation is possible. 
     An example of the transition from the first state ST 1  to the second state ST 2  will now be described. 
       FIG. 11A  to  FIG. 11C ,  FIG. 12A  and  FIG. 12B  are schematic cross-sectional views illustrating the MEMS element according to the second embodiment. 
     In the first state ST 1  shown in  FIG. 11A , for example, an electrical signal for control is not applied between the second conductive member  22  and the first fixed electrode  11  or between the second conductive member  22  and the second fixed electrode  12 . For example, the second conductive member  22 , the first fixed electrode  11 , and the second fixed electrode  12  are in the floating state FLT. At this time, the first movable electrode  20 E is separated from the first fixed electrode  11  and the second fixed electrode  12 . In such a first state ST 1 , a current can flow between the first terminal T 1  and the second terminal T 2 . In the first state ST 1 , the element part  51  is in the conducting state (the on-state). 
     As shown in  FIG. 11B , for example, the second terminal T 2  (the second conductive member  22 ) is set to the ground potential V 0 , and the first electrical signal Sg 1  is applied to the first fixed electrode  11 . At this time, for example, the second fixed electrode  12  is set to the ground potential V 0 . Thereby, the first electrode region  20 Ea of the first movable electrode  20 E contacts the first fixed electrode  11 . At this time, a state can be formed in which the second electrode region  20 Eb is separated from the second fixed electrode  12 . The temperature of the first conductive member  21  at the vicinity of the end portion  20 Ep of the first movable electrode  20 E is easily increased locally thereby. For example, the rise of the temperature is due to Joule heat. 
     When the temperatures of the end portions  20 Ep and  21   p  locally rise, the first conductive member  21  breaks, and the break portion  21 B is formed as shown in  FIG. 11B . 
     As shown in  FIG. 11C , the broken first conductive member  21  may approach the state of  FIG. 11A . For example, this is due to the restoring force due to the elasticity of the first conductive member  21 . As shown in  FIG. 11C , the end portion  20 Ep of the first movable electrode  20 E is separated from the first conductive member  21 . Thus, the first conductive member  21  is divided. 
     For example, when a portion of the first conductive member  21  overlaps the first fixed electrode  11  in the Z-axis direction, the end portion  21   p  of the first conductive member  21  easily contacts the first fixed electrode  11  when the first movable electrode  20 E approaches the first fixed electrode  11 . A current locally flows between the end portion  21   p  and the first fixed electrode  11 . The temperature of the end portion  21   p  easily rises locally. The first conductive member  21  breaks more stably. 
     As shown in  FIG. 12A , for example, the second terminal T 2  (the second conductive member  22 ) is set to the ground potential V 0 , and the second electrical signal Sg 2  is applied to the second fixed electrode  12 . At this time, for example, the first fixed electrode  11  is set to the floating state FLT or a high-impedance state Hi-Z. For example, a current does not flow between the first fixed electrode  11  and the second fixed electrode  12 . The temperature of the second conductive member  22  rises, and the second conductive member  22  breaks. For example, the rise of the temperature is due to Joule heat. The second conductive member  22  is divided at the break portion  22 B. The application of the second electrical signal Sg 2  ends. 
     As shown in  FIG. 12B , the broken second conductive member  22  may approach the state of  FIG. 11A . For example, this is due to the restoring force due to the elasticity of the second conductive member  22 . As shown in  FIG. 12B , the end portion  20 Eq of the first movable electrode  20 E is separated from the second conductive member  22 . 
     In the second state ST 2  shown in  FIG. 12B , for example, the second conductive member  22 , the first fixed electrode  11 , and the second fixed electrode  12  are in the floating state FLT. The broken states of the first and second conductive members  21  and  22  continue even after the application of the first electrical signal Sg 1  and the second electrical signal Sg 2  has ended. In the second state ST 2 , a current does not flow between the first terminal T 1  and the second terminal T 2 . In the second state ST 2 , the element part  51  is in the nonconducting state (the off-state). 
     Thus, in the MEMS element  120  according to the embodiment, both the first conductive member  21  and the second conductive member  22  are in a broken state in the second state ST 2 . The current that flows between the first terminal T 1  and the second terminal T 2  can be stably blocked thereby. 
       FIG. 13  is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a MEMS element according to the second embodiment. 
       FIG. 13  illustrates the MEMS element  121  according to the embodiment.  FIG. 13  illustrates the first state ST 1 . As shown in  FIG. 13 , the MEMS element  121  includes the first member  41 , the second member  42 , and the element part  51 . The first fixed electrode  11 , the second fixed electrode  12 , and the first movable electrode  20 E are between the first member  41  and the second member  42 . In the first state ST 1 , the first gap g 1  is between the first fixed electrode  11  and the first movable electrode  20 E and between the second fixed electrode  12  and the first movable electrode  20 E. In the first state ST 1 , the second gap g 2  is between the first movable electrode  20 E and the second member  42 . The first movable electrode  20 E can be displaced along the Z-axis direction due to the first and second gaps g 1  and g 2 . 
     It is favorable for the electrical resistances of the first and second conductive members  21  and  22  in the first and second embodiments to be, for example, 10Ω or less. By setting the electrical resistance to be low, a signal that has a high frequency can be efficiently transmitted with low loss. 
     In the first and second embodiments, for example, at least one of the first conductive member  21  or the second conductive member  22  includes at least one selected from the group consisting of Al, Cu, Au, Ti, Pd, Pt, and W. A low resistance is obtained, and good transmission in the element part  51  is obtained. 
       FIG. 14A  and  FIG. 14B  are schematic views illustrating a MEMS element according to the second embodiment. 
       FIG. 14A  is a plan view.  FIG. 14B  is a perspective view. 
     As shown in  FIG. 14B , the MEMS element  122  according to the embodiment also includes the first member  41  and the element part  51 . In the MEMS element  122 , the element part  51  includes the first fixed electrode  11 , the first movable electrode  20 E, the second fixed electrode  12 , the first conductive member  21 , and the second conductive member  22 . The configurations of the first movable electrode  20 E and the supporters in the MEMS element  122  are different from the configurations of the first movable electrode  20 E and the supporters in the MEMS element  120 . An example of the configurations of the first movable electrode  20 E and the supporters in the MEMS element  122  will now be described. 
     In the MEMS element  122  as shown in  FIG. 14A  and  FIG. 14B , the first movable electrode  20 E further includes a third electrode region  20 Ec in addition to the first electrode region  20 Ea and the second electrode region  20 Eb. The third electrode region  20 Ec is between the first electrode region  20 Ea and the second electrode region  20 Eb. 
     The element part  51  includes the first supporter  21 S, the second supporter  22 S, and a third supporter  23 S. The first supporter  21 S, the second supporter  22 S, and the third supporter  23 S are fixed to the first member  41 . The first supporter  21 S, the second supporter  22 S, and the third supporter  23 S are not illustrated in  FIG. 14B . 
     The first supporter  21 S supports at least a portion of the first conductive member  21  to be separated from the first member  41 . The second supporter  22 S supports at least a portion of the second conductive member  22  to be separated from the first member  41 . The third supporter  23 S supports at least a portion of the third electrode region  20 Ec to be separated from the first member  41 . 
     For example, the third electrode region  20 Ec may be a portion including the X-axis direction center of the first movable electrode  20 E. For example, the third electrode region  20 Ec is at the central portion between the first conductive member  21  and the second conductive member  22 . In the MEMS element  122 , at least a portion of the third electrode region  20 Ec is supported to be separated from the first member  41 . Thereby, for example, the distance between the second electrode region  20 Eb and the second fixed electrode  12  increases when the distance between the first electrode region  20 Ea and the first fixed electrode  11  decreases. Both the first conductive member  21  and the second conductive member  22  break more easily and more stably. Examples of operations of the MEMS element  122  are described below. 
     In the example, the first movable electrode  20 E includes a first extension region  28   a . The first extension region  28   a  extends along an extension direction. The extension direction is along a surface  41   a  of the first member  41  and crosses the direction (in the example, the X-axis direction) from the first electrode region  20 Ea toward the second electrode region  20 Eb. In the example, the extension direction is the Y-axis direction. 
     A portion (e.g., an end) of the first extension region  28   a  is connected to the third electrode region  20 Ec. Another portion (e.g., another end) of the first extension region  28   a  is connected to the third supporter  23 S. 
     Thus, the third supporter  23 S may support at least a portion of the third electrode region  20 Ec via the first extension region  28   a  to be separated from the first member  41 . 
     In the example, the first movable electrode  20 E includes a second extension region  28   b . The third electrode region  20 Ec is between the first extension region  28   a  and the second extension region  28   b  in the extension direction recited above (e.g., the Y-axis direction). 
     The element part  51  further includes a fourth supporter  24 S fixed to the first member  41 . A portion (e.g., an end) of the second extension region  28   b  is connected to the third electrode region  20 Ec. Another portion (e.g., another end) of the second extension region  28   b  is connected to the fourth supporter  24 S. 
     Thus, the fourth supporter  24 S may support at least a portion of the third electrode region  20 Ec via the second extension region  28   b  to be separated from the first member  41 . 
     For example, the third supporter  23 S and the fourth supporter  24 S may be electrically insulated from the first movable electrode  20 E. The first electrode region  20 Ea, the second electrode region  20 Eb, the third electrode region  20 Ec, the first extension region  28   a , and the second extension region  28   b  may be a continuous conductive layer. For example, the first extension region  28   a  and the second extension region  28   b  may function as a torsion spring. 
     Examples of operations of the MEMS element  122  will now be described. 
       FIG. 15A  to  FIG. 15C  and  FIG. 16A  to  FIG. 16C  are schematic cross-sectional views illustrating the MEMS element according to the second embodiment. 
     These drawings correspond to a line B 1 -B 2  cross section of  FIG. 14A . 
     In the first state ST 1  shown in  FIG. 15A , for example, the second conductive member  22 , the first fixed electrode  11 , and the second fixed electrode  12  are set to the floating state FLT or the ground potential V 0 . In the first state ST 1 , the element part  51  is in the conducting state (the on-state). 
     As shown in  FIG. 15B , for example, the second terminal T 2  (the second conductive member  22 ) is set to the ground potential V 0 , and the first electrical signal Sg 1  is applied to the first fixed electrode  11 . The first electrode region  20 Ea contacts the first fixed electrode  11 . Because the third electrode region  20 Ec is supported via the first extension region  28   a  to be separated from the first member  41 , the distance between the second electrode region  20 Eb and the second fixed electrode  12  increases. The temperature of the first conductive member  21  at the vicinity of the end portion  20 Ep of the first movable electrode  20 E easily rises locally. 
     When the temperature of the end portion  20 Ep and the end portion  21   p  locally rises, the first conductive member  21  breaks and the break portion  21 B is formed as shown in  FIG. 15B . 
     As shown in  FIG. 15C , the broken first conductive member  21  may approach the state of  FIG. 11A  due to the restoring force due to the elasticity of the first conductive member  21 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 16A , for example, the second terminal T 2  (the second conductive member  22 ) is set to the ground potential V 0 , and the second electrical signal Sg 2  is applied to the second fixed electrode  12 . At this time, for example, the first fixed electrode  11  is set to the ground potential V 0  or the high-impedance state Hi-Z. The temperature of the second conductive member  22  rises, and the second conductive member  22  breaks. The second conductive member  22  is divided at the break portion  22 B. The application of the second electrical signal Sg 2  ends. 
     As shown in  FIG. 16B , the broken second conductive member  22  may approach the state of  FIG. 16A  due to the restoring force due to the elasticity of the second conductive member  22 . 
     In the second state ST 2  shown in  FIG. 16C , for example, the second conductive member  22 , the first fixed electrode  11 , and the second fixed electrode  12  are in the floating state FLT. In the second state ST 2 , the element part  51  is in the nonconducting state (the off-state). 
     In the MEMS element  122 , both the first conductive member  21  and the second conductive member  22  break easily in the second state ST 2 . The current that flows between the first terminal T 1  and the second terminal T 2  can be stably blocked. 
       FIG. 17A  and  FIG. 17B  are schematic cross-sectional views illustrating the MEMS element according to the embodiment. These drawings illustrate another operation of the MEMS element  122 . These drawings illustrate an operation after the operation described in reference to  FIG. 15A  to  FIG. 15C  is performed. 
     As shown in  FIG. 17A , for example, the second terminal T 2  (the second conductive member  22 ) is set to the ground potential V 0 , and a third electrical signal Sg 3  is applied to the first fixed electrode  11 . For example, the absolute value of the third electrical signal Sg 3  is greater than the absolute value of the first electrical signal Sg 1 . The second conductive member  22  is broken thereby. As shown in  FIG. 17A , the broken second conductive member  22  may approach the state of  FIG. 15C  due to the restoring force due to the elasticity of the second conductive member  22 . 
     In the second state ST 2  shown in  FIG. 17B , for example, the second conductive member  22 , the first fixed electrode  11 , and the second fixed electrode  12  are in the floating state FLT. In the second state ST 2 , the element part  51  is in the nonconducting state (the off-state). 
     The configuration in which at least a portion of the third electrode region  20 Ec is supported to be separated from the first member  41  may be applied to a configuration in which the second fixed electrode  12  is not provided. For example, the third electrode region  20 Ec, the first extension region  28   a , the second extension region  28   b , the third supporter  23 S, the fourth supporter  24 S, etc., described in reference to the MEMS element  122  (referring to  FIG. 14A ) may be provided in the MEMS element  110  illustrated in  FIG. 1A  and  FIG. 18 . 
     For example, in the MEMS element  110 , the first movable electrode  20 E may include the first electrode region  20 Ea, the second electrode region  20 Eb, and the third electrode region  20 Ec (referring to  FIG. 14A ). The first electrode region  20 Ea is between the first conductive member  21  and the second conductive member  22 . The second electrode region  20 Eb is between the first electrode region  20 Ea and the second conductive member  22 . The third electrode region  20 Ec is between the first electrode region  20 Ea and the second electrode region  20 Eb. The element part  51  includes the first supporter  21 S that is fixed to the first member  41 , the second supporter  22 S that is fixed to the first member  41 , and the third supporter  23 S that is fixed to the first member  41 . The first supporter  21 S supports at least a portion of the first conductive member  21  to be separated from the first member  41 . The second supporter  22 S supports at least a portion of the second conductive member  22  to be separated from the first member  41 . The third supporter  23 S supports at least a portion of the third electrode region  20 Ec to be separated from the first member  41 . More stable breakage is obtained. In such a case, for example, the operation described in reference to  FIG. 15A  to  FIG. 15C ,  FIG. 16A  and  FIG. 16B  may be performed. In the example, the surface area of the portion of the first electrode region  20 Ea facing the first fixed electrode  11  may be greater than the surface area of the portion of the second electrode region  20 Eb facing the first fixed electrode  11 . 
     Third Embodiment 
       FIG. 18  is a schematic view illustrating a MEMS element according to a third embodiment. 
     As shown in  FIG. 18 , the MEMS element  130  according to the embodiment includes multiple element parts  51 . For example, the multiple element parts  51  are connected in parallel. Control signals Vpp are applicable independently to the multiple element parts  51 . 
     For example, the first and second conductive members  21  and  22  included in one of the multiple element parts  51  are breakable independently from the first and second conductive members  21  and  22  included in another one of the multiple element parts  51 . 
     Multiple first capacitance elements  31  are provided in the example. One of the multiple first capacitance elements  31  is connected in series to one of the multiple element parts  51 . The MEMS element  130  is a capacitance element array including the multiple element parts  51  and the multiple first capacitance elements  31 . Several of the multiple element parts  51  can be set to the off-state. The electrical capacitance of the MEMS element  130  can be modified by setting several of the multiple element parts  51  to the off-state. 
     Fourth Embodiment 
     A fourth embodiment relates to an electrical circuit.  FIG. 18  illustrates the configuration of the electrical circuit  210  according to the embodiment. As shown in  FIG. 18 , the electrical circuit  210  includes a MEMS element (e.g., the MEMS element  130 ) according to the first to third embodiments and an electrical element  55 . The electrical element  55  is electrically connected to the MEMS element  130 . The electrical element  55  includes at least one selected from the group consisting of a resistance, a capacitance element, an inductor element, a diode, and a transistor. The capacitance element included in the electrical element  55  may include a sensor. For example, the electrical element  55  may include a sensor element. For example, the electrical element  55  may include a capacitive sensor element. 
     In the electrical circuit  210 , the MEMS element (e.g., the MEMS element  130 ) may include multiple element parts  51 . The characteristics of the electrical circuit  210  are controllable by breaking the first and second conductive members  21  and  22  included in at least one of the multiple element parts  51 . 
     For example, when the MEMS element  130  includes the first capacitance element  31 , the electrical capacitance of the MEMS element  130  can be controlled by breaking the first and second conductive members  21  and  22  included in at least one of the multiple element parts  51 . As a result, the characteristics of the electrical circuit  210  are controllable. 
     For example, the electrical circuit  210  may be used in a voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO). For example, the electrical circuit  210  may be used in an impedance matching circuit of a high frequency circuit such as an antenna, etc. For example, the electrical circuit  210  may be used in a passive RF tag. For example, the characteristics of the electrical circuit  210  can be appropriately adjusted by adjusting an electrical capacitance or an inductor of the electrical circuit  210 . For example, a voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) that has stable characteristics is obtained. For example, stable characteristics are obtained in the impedance matching circuit of a high frequency circuit such as an antenna, etc. For example, a passive RF tag or the like that has stable characteristics is obtained. 
       FIG. 19  and  FIG. 20  are schematic views illustrating control circuits used in the MEMS element according to the embodiment. 
     As shown in  FIG. 19 , a control circuit  310  includes a voltage step-up circuit  321 , a logic circuit  322 , and a switching matrix  323 . A power supply voltage Vcc is supplied to the voltage step-up circuit  321 . The voltage step-up circuit  321  outputs a high voltage Vh to the switching matrix  323 . The switching matrix  323  outputs multiple control signals Vpp according to a signal  322   a  supplied from the logic circuit  322  to the switching matrix  323 . One of the multiple control signals Vpp is supplied to one of the multiple element parts  51 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 20 , a control circuit  311  includes a control power supply  324 , the logic circuit  322 , and the switching matrix  323 . The control power supply  324  is, for example, a control voltage source or a control current source. The control power supply  324  outputs, to the switching matrix  323 , the high voltage Vh and a large current Ih. The switching matrix  323  outputs the multiple control signals Vpp according to the signal  322   a  supplied to the switching matrix  323  from the logic circuit  322 . One of the multiple control signals Vpp is supplied to one of the multiple element parts  51 . The switching matrix  323  may output multiple control currents Ipp. One of the multiple control currents Ipp is supplied to one of the multiple element parts  51 . 
     For example, at least a portion of the control circuits  310  and  311  is included in, for example, the controller  70 . 
     Examples of the first electrical signal Sg 1  supplied between the second conductive member  22  and the first fixed electrode  11  from the controller  70  will now be described. 
       FIG. 21A  and  FIG. 21B  are schematic views illustrating an operation relating to the MEMS element according to the first embodiment. 
     These figures show one example of the first electrical signal Sg 1 . In these figures, the horizontal axis is the time tm. The vertical axis of  FIG. 21A  is a voltage Va 1  of the first electrical signal Sg 1 . The vertical axis of  FIG. 21B  is a current Ia 1  of the first electrical signal Sg 1 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 21A , the voltage Va 1  starts to increase at a first time t 1 . The voltage Va 1  reaches a first voltage V 1  after a second time t 2 . The first voltage V 1  is maintained through third and fourth times t 3  and t 4 , and the voltage Va 1  starts to increase at the fourth time t 4 . The voltage Va 1  becomes a second voltage V 2  after the fourth time t 4 . Subsequently, the voltage Va 1  is maintained at the second voltage V 2  from a fifth time t 5  to a sixth time t 6 . The voltage Va 1  starts to drop at the sixth time t 6 . The drop of the voltage Va 1  ends at a seventh time t 7 ; for example, the voltage Va 1  becomes 0 volts. The absolute value of the first voltage V 1  is less than the absolute value of the second voltage V 2 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 21B , the current Ia 1  substantially does not flow between the first time t 1  and the second time t 2 . The current Ia 1  becomes a first current I 1  after the second time t 2 . The current Ia 1  is less than the first current I 1  from the third time t 3  to the fourth time t 4 . The current Ia 1  starts to rise at the fourth time t 4  and becomes a second current I 2 . The current Ia 1  starts to drop at the fifth time t 5 , and the current Ia 1  does not flow at the sixth time t 6 . The absolute value of the first current I 1  is less than the absolute value of the second current I 2 . 
     For example, the first movable electrode  20 E approaches the first fixed electrode  11  in the period from the first time t 1  to the second time t 2 . For example, a portion of the first movable electrode  20 E (e.g., a portion at the first conductive member  21  side) contacts the first fixed electrode  11  at the second time t 2 . Thereby, in the period from the second time t 2  to the third time t 3 , the current Ia 1  increases, and the current Ia 1  becomes the first current I 1 . For example, the first conductive member  21  breaks at the third time t 3 , and the current Ia 1  decreases. Subsequently, in the period from the fourth time t 4  to the fifth time t 5 , the second conductive member  22  side of the first movable electrode  20 E approaches the first fixed electrode  11 , and the current Ia 1  increases. The current Ia 1  becomes the second current I 2  when the first movable electrode  20 E contacts the first fixed electrode  11 . The second conductive member  22  breaks at the fifth time t 5 , and the current Ia 1  drops. 
     For example, the first conductive member  21  and the second conductive member  22  are broken by the voltage Va 1  and the current Ia 1  illustrated in  FIG. 21A  and  FIG. 21B . 
       FIG. 22A  and  FIG. 22B  are schematic views illustrating an operation relating to the MEMS element according to the first embodiment. 
     These figures show another first electrical signal Sg 1 . In these figures, the horizontal axis is the time tm. The vertical axis of  FIG. 22A  is the voltage Va 1  of the first electrical signal Sg 1 . The vertical axis of  FIG. 22B  is the current Ia 1  of the first electrical signal Sg 1 . 
     In the example shown in  FIG. 22A , the voltage Va 1  changes similarly to  FIG. 21A . 
     As shown in  FIG. 22B , a current substantially does not flow between the first time t 1  and the second time t 2 . The current Ia 1  becomes a current Icomp 1  after the second time t 2  in the period between the second time t 2  and an eighth time t 8 . The eighth time t 8  is between the second time t 2  and the third time t 3 . The current Ia 1  is the first current I 1  after the eighth time t 8  in the period between the eighth time t 8  and the third time t 3 . The current Ia 1  is less than the first current I 1  between the third time t 3  and the fourth time t 4 . The current Ia 1  starts to rise at the fourth time t 4  and reaches a current Icomp 2 . Subsequently, the current Ia 1  again starts to rise at a ninth time t 9  and reaches the second current I 2 . The ninth time t 9  is between the fourth time t 4  and the fifth time t 5 . The current Ia 1  starts to drop at the fifth time t 5 , and the current Ia 1  does not flow at the sixth time t 6 . The absolute value of the first current ii is less than the absolute value of the second current I 2 . 
     For example, the first movable electrode  20 E approaches the first fixed electrode  11  in the period from the first time t 1  to the second time t 2 . For example, a portion of the first movable electrode  20 E (e.g., a portion at the first conductive member  21  side) contacts the first fixed electrode  11  at the second time t 2 . The current Ia 1  increases to the current Icomp 1  at the second time t 2 . At the eighth time t 8  at which the current Ia 1  has reached the current Icomp 1 , the current Ia 1  that is supplied from the controller  70  is increased, and the current Ia 1  is set to the first current I 1 . For example, the first conductive member  21  breaks at the third time t 3 , and the current Ia 1  drops. Subsequently, the second conductive member  22  side of the first movable electrode  20 E starts to approach the first fixed electrode  11  at the fourth time t 4 , and the current Ia 1  increases. The first movable electrode  20 E contacts the first fixed electrode  11 , and the current Ia 1  increases to the current Icomp 2 . At the ninth time t 9  at which the current Ia 1  has reached the current Icomp 2 , the current Ia 1  that is supplied by the controller  70  is increased, and the current Ia 1  is set to the second current I 2 . At the fifth time t 5 , the second conductive member  22  breaks, and the current Ia 1  drops. 
     For example, the first conductive member  21  and the second conductive member  22  are broken by the voltage Va 1  and the current Ia 1  illustrated in  FIG. 22A  and  FIG. 22B . 
     The embodiments may include the following configurations (e.g., technological proposals). 
     Configuration 1 
     A MEMS element, comprising: 
     a first member; and 
     an element part, 
     the element part including
         a first fixed electrode fixed to the first member,   a first movable electrode facing the first fixed electrode,   a first conductive member electrically connected to the first movable electrode, and   a second conductive member electrically connected to the first movable electrode,       

     the first conductive member and the second conductive member supporting the first movable electrode to be separated from the first fixed electrode in a first state before a first electrical signal is applied between the second conductive member and the first fixed electrode, 
     the first conductive member and the second conductive member being in a broken state in a second state after the first electrical signal is applied between the second conductive member and the first fixed electrode. 
     Configuration 2 
     The MEMS element according to Configuration 1, wherein 
     a rigidity of the first conductive member is different from a rigidity of the second conductive member. 
     Configuration 3 
     The MEMS element according to Configuration 1 or 2, wherein 
     the first conductive member has a first length along a first current path, and a first width in a direction perpendicular to the first current path, the first current path including the first conductive member and the first movable electrode, and 
     the second conductive member has at least one of a second length along a second current path, or a second width in a direction perpendicular to the second current path, the second current path including the second conductive member and the first movable electrode, the second length being less than the first length, the second width being greater than the first width. 
     Configuration 4 
     The MEMS element according to any one of Configurations 1 to 3, wherein 
     at least one of a portion of the first conductive member or a portion of the second conductive member overlaps the first fixed electrode in a first direction from the first fixed electrode toward the first movable electrode. 
     Configuration 5 
     The MEMS element according to any one of Configurations 1 to 3, wherein 
     the first conductive member includes a first notch portion and a first non-notch portion, a direction from the first notch portion toward the first non-notch portion being along a first current path including the first conductive member and the first movable electrode, and 
     a length of the first notch portion along a first cross direction perpendicular to the first current path is less than a length of the first non-notch portion along the first cross direction. 
     Configuration 6 
     The MEMS element according to Configuration 5, wherein 
     a distance between the first notch portion and the first movable electrode is not more than ½ of a first length of the first conductive member along a first current path, the first current path including the first conductive member and the first movable electrode. 
     Configuration 7 
     The MEMS element according to Configuration 5 or 6, wherein 
     the first notch portion overlaps an end portion of the first fixed electrode in a first direction from the first fixed electrode toward the first movable electrode. 
     Configuration 8 
     The MEMS element according to any one of Configurations 5 to 7, wherein 
     the second conductive member includes a second notch portion and a second non-notch portion, a direction from the second notch portion toward the second non-notch portion being along a second current path including the second conductive member and the first movable electrode, and 
     a length of the second notch portion along a second cross direction perpendicular to the second current path is less than a length of the second non-notch portion along the second cross direction. 
     Configuration 9 
     The MEMS element according to any one of Configurations 1 to 3, wherein 
     the second conductive member includes a second notch portion and a second non-notch portion, a direction from the second notch portion toward the second non-notch portion being along a second current path including the second conductive member and the first movable electrode, 
     a length of the second notch portion along a second cross direction perpendicular to the second current path is less than a length of the second non-notch portion along the second cross direction, and 
     the second notch portion overlaps an end portion of the first fixed electrode in a first direction from the first fixed electrode toward the first movable electrode. 
     Configuration 10 
     The MEMS element according to any one of Configurations 1 to 9, further comprising: 
     a second member, 
     the first fixed electrode and the first movable electrode being between the first member and the second member, 
     a first gap being between the first fixed electrode and the first movable electrode in the first state, 
     a second gap being between the first movable electrode and the second member in the first state. 
     Configuration 11 
     The MEMS element according to any one of Configurations 1 to 10, wherein 
     a current can flow between the first movable electrode and the first fixed electrode when the first electrical signal is applied between the second conductive member and the first fixed electrode. 
     Configuration 12 
     The MEMS element according to any one of Configurations 1 to 11, wherein the first movable electrode contacts the first fixed electrode when the first electrical signal is applied between the second conductive member and the first fixed electrode. 
     Configuration 13 
     The MEMS element according to any one of Configurations 1 to 12, wherein 
     the element part further includes a first capacitance element electrically connected to the first conductive member. 
     Configuration 14 
     The MEMS element according to any one of Configurations 1 to 13, wherein 
     the element part further includes a second fixed electrode fixed to the first member, 
     the first movable electrode includes a first electrode region and a second electrode region, 
     a distance between the first electrode region and the first conductive member is less than a distance between the second electrode region and the first conductive member, 
     the first electrode region faces the first fixed electrode, 
     the second electrode region faces the second fixed electrode, 
     the first state is before a second electrical signal is applied between the second conductive member and the second fixed electrode, 
     the first conductive member and the second conductive member support the first movable electrode to be separated from the second fixed electrode in the first state, 
     the second state is after the second electrical signal is applied between the second conductive member and the second fixed electrode, and 
     the first conductive member and the second conductive member are in a broken state in the second state. 
     Configuration 15 
     The MEMS element according to Configuration 14, wherein 
     a start of an application of the second electrical signal is after a start of an application of the first electrical signal. 
     Configuration 16 
     The MEMS element according to Configuration 15, wherein 
     an end of the application of the second electrical signal is after an end of the application of the first electrical signal. 
     Configuration 17 
     The MEMS element according to any one of Configurations 14 to 16, wherein 
     the first movable electrode further includes a third electrode region between the first electrode region and the second electrode region, 
     the element part includes a first supporter fixed to the first member, a second supporter fixed to the first member, and a third supporter fixed to the first member,
         the first supporter supports at least a portion of the first conductive member to be separated from the first member,   the second supporter supports at least a portion of the second conductive member to be separated from the first member, and   the third supporter supports at least a portion of the third electrode region to be separated from the first member.
 
Configuration 18
       

     The MEMS element according to any one of Configurations 1 to 13, wherein 
     the first movable electrode includes a first electrode region, a second electrode region, and a third electrode region, the first electrode region being between the first conductive member and the second conductive member, the second electrode region being between the first electrode region and the second conductive member, the third electrode region being between the first electrode region and the second electrode region, 
     the element part includes a first supporter fixed to the first member, a second supporter fixed to the first member, and a third supporter fixed to the first member, 
     the first supporter supports at least a portion of the first conductive member to be separated from the first member, 
     the second supporter supports at least a portion of the second conductive member to be separated from the first member, and 
     the third supporter supports at least a portion of the third electrode region to be separated from the first member. 
     Configuration 19 
     The MEMS element according to Configuration 17 or 18, wherein 
     the first movable electrode includes a first extension region, 
     the first extension region extends along an extension direction, 
     the extension direction is along a surface of the first member and crosses a direction from the first electrode region toward the second electrode region, 
     a portion of the first extension region is connected to the third electrode region, and 
     an other portion of the first extension region is connected to the third supporter. 
     Configuration 20 
     The MEMS element according to Configuration 19, wherein 
     the first movable electrode includes a second extension region, 
     the third electrode region is between the first extension region and the second extension region in the extension direction, 
     the element part further includes a fourth supporter fixed to the first member, 
     a portion of the second extension region is connected to the third electrode region, and 
     an other portion of the second extension region is connected to the fourth supporter. 
     Configuration 21 
     The MEMS element according to any one of Configurations 1 to 20, wherein 
     at least one of the first conductive member or the second conductive member includes at least one selected from the group consisting of Al, Cu, Au, Ti, Pd, Pt, and W. 
     Configuration 22 
     The MEMS element according to any one of Configurations 1 to 21, comprising: 
     a plurality of the element parts, 
     the first and second conductive members included in one of the plurality of element parts being breakable independently from the first and second conductive members included in an other one of the plurality of element parts. 
     Configuration 23 
     An electrical circuit, comprising: 
     the MEMS element according to any one of Configurations 1 to 22; and 
     an electrical element electrically connected to the MEMS element, 
     the electrical element including at least one selected from the group consisting of a resistance, a capacitance element, an inductor element, a diode, and a transistor. 
     Configuration 24 
     An electrical circuit, comprising: 
     the MEMS element according to any one of Configurations 1 to 22; and 
     an electrical element electrically connected to the MEMS element, 
     the electrical element including a sensor element. 
     Configuration 25 
     The electrical circuit according to Configuration 23 or 24, wherein 
     the MEMS element includes a plurality of the element parts, and 
     a characteristic of the electrical circuit is controllable by breaking the first and second conductive members included in at least one of the plurality of element parts. 
     According to the embodiments, a MEMS element and an electrical circuit can be provided in which a stable operation is possible. 
     Hereinabove, exemplary embodiments of the invention are described with reference to specific examples. However, the embodiments of the invention are not limited to these specific examples. For example, one skilled in the art may similarly practice the invention by appropriately selecting specific configurations of components included in MEMS elements and electrical circuits such as first members, element parts, fixed electrodes, movable electrodes, first conductive members, second conductive members, etc., from known art. Such practice is included in the scope of the invention to the extent that similar effects thereto are obtained. 
     Further, any two or more components of the specific examples may be combined within the extent of technical feasibility and are included in the scope of the invention to the extent that the purport of the invention is included. 
     Moreover, all MEMS elements, and electrical circuits practicable by an appropriate design modification by one skilled in the art based on the MEMS members, and the electrical circuits described above as embodiments of the invention also are within the scope of the invention to the extent that the purport of the invention is included. 
     Various other variations and modifications can be conceived by those skilled in the art within the spirit of the invention, and it is understood that such variations and modifications are also encompassed within the scope of the invention. 
     While certain embodiments have been described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the inventions. Indeed, the novel embodiments described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms; furthermore, various omissions, substitutions and changes in the form of the embodiments described herein may be made without departing from the spirit of the inventions. The accompanying claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms or modifications as would fall within the scope and spirit of the invention.