Abstract
A bistable mechanism is proposed with symmetrical snap-through behavior between the two equilibrium positions. The mechanism is monolithic and does not require external axial load, as buckled beams. It consists of two pre-shaped beams of opposite curvature with similar properties and dimensions, which are connected after fabrication. The combination of the opposite pre-shaped beams, each having non-symmetrical bistability, results in total symmetric bistability. This symmetrical bistable mechanism provides the advantage of having the same switching force in the forward and backward directions. The concept of the new mechanism is presented, analyzed based on the snapping force curves, and tested experimentally on microfabricated prototypes. (C) 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.