MEMS implementation of a Brownian ratchet

Andrew G. Allison; Derek Abbott

doi:10.1117/12.418769

16 March 2001 MEMS implementation of a Brownian ratchet

Andrew G. Allison, Derek Abbott

Proceedings Volume 4236, Smart Electronics and MEMS II; (2001) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.418769
Event: Smart Materials and MEMS, 2000, Melbourne, Australia

Abstract

A Brownian Ratchet is a device that can rectify the random Brownian motion of particles to yield a directed steady-state flow. We can imagine a thermo-fluid field of particles which interact with the ratchet. The laws of thermodynamics imply that the ratchet must use energy from some other source. The dynamics of continuous-time Brownian ratchets are determined by a stochastic partial differential equation. We have used a simplified discrete-time model of a Brownian ratchet called ``Parrondo's games'' which are governed by a difference equation. In their original form, Parrondo's games are a finite set of simple games of chance. An indefinite pure sequence of any single game is neutral or even losing. A periodic or randomised sequence of mixed games can be winning. There is a steady state flow of probability in the preferred direction. We have been able to design a feasible and consistent device, by mapping the conservation law of total probability onto the law of conservation of charge. This device can absorb energy from a mechanical field to produce a directed flow of charge. The fundamental architecture is based on a ``bucket-brigade'' device. The capacitors are 2-port MEMS devices. We use CMOS transmission gates to connect the capacitors in the required topology. We present an analysis and simulation of the MEMS Brownian ratchet and suggest some possible applications.

Citation Download Citation

Andrew G. Allison and Derek Abbott "MEMS implementation of a Brownian ratchet", Proc. SPIE 4236, Smart Electronics and MEMS II, (16 March 2001); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.418769

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available