Development of microconnector with automatic connecting/disconnecting mechanism

We have developed an electrical and mechanical microconnector with an automatic connecting/disconnecting mechanism, using magnetic force. The diameter and thickness of the microconnector are 2.5 mm and 2 mm, respectively. We have confirmed the automatic connection/disconnection in the distance of 550 /spl mu/m between opposing microconnectors, and electrical connection at 500 mA. The driving actuator for automatic connection/disconnection is realized through the use of an electromagnet, permanent magnet and spiral spring. The electrical terminal is designed to minimize the contact force in the automatic connecting/disconnecting mechanism, and is fabricated using deep X-ray lithography.