Date of Award

2006

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Engineering Science

Program

Mechanical and Materials Engineering

Supervisor

Prof. John Dryden

Abstract

This thesis covers a theoretical study of interfacial temperature generated at MEMS switch contact interfaces. A characterization of metal surface topography based on fractal geometry is presented. A surface model, a surface contact model and electrical contact resistance are discussed in the thesis. Further, a theoretical treatment of the general problem of electrical contact and heating is presented and developed. The interfacial temperature generated at micro electrical contact is analyzed and discussed, and the reason for the collapse of gold contact system before melting point of gold is given. Moreover, the interfacial temperature and contact heating analysis related to MEMS switch contact interfaces are discussed.

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