Moving electronic part/switch/relay - does this exist?

[Phil Welch]

I am brainstorming an electro-mechanical project and was wondering if something like this exists: a two-state small device that switches between one position and another position when voltage/current is temporarily applied. The requirements are small (I'm thinking roughly 2-4mm square), lightweight, and low power consumption (no power consumption except when switching states). This theoretical device would be roughly 'flat' in one state and then taller in the other state (I'm imagining an unpopped vs. popped bag of popcorn).

Thank you for humoring my ignorance!

- Phil

 

[Bluejets]

Dead short IC...??
No, nothing I can think at that size.

 

[shrtrnd]

Yeah. I don't know of anything that small. Theoretically, this sounds basically something like what a solenoid would do.

 

[BobK]

I think what would be needed would be a solenoid coupled with some mechanics that would give the latching of two states. Something like in a click-type ball point pen. However that is very small. (particularly since it is a square, which is two dimensional .)

Bob

 

[Bluejets]

Could try a small resistor tied to a piece of bi-metal ...but again...2 * 4 mm and flat at that

Resistor buried in a piece of pc board with a bubble of glad-wrap over the top....mm... that's it for me

 

[Gryd3]

I've seen interesting work done with piezo elements. But I can't think of a thing that would match the op's specifications...
Particularly something without current draw once the state has been set or reset.

 

[BobK]

Actually, there are such beasts. Look up "latching solenoids". But I don't think you will find one in the size the OP wants.

Bob

 

[Phil Welch]

Thanks to all who replied! I'll keep thinking/looking for alternate solutions

 

[shrtrnd]

Considering the size required, Gryd3's idea of piezo elements sounds feasible. I'd look around, and see what might be available there.