Application of magnetostrictive thin films for microdevices

The development of giant magnetostrictive thin films broadens the field of micro devices design. Using nonlinear 2D modelling software, two devices are studied: a magnetostrictive cantilever; and a magnetostrictive membrane driven by a magnetic field. These devices have been designed and realised. Modelling results are compared with experimental data and used for inverse characterisation. Applications of such devices range from optical mirrors to micropumps or valves.