PHASE CHANGE MATERIAL (PCM)-BASED CONDUCTIVE THERMAL ACTUATOR SWITCH

An apparatus includes multiple thermal actuator switches configured to control a transfer of thermal energy. The thermal actuator switches are arranged in a stacked configuration. Each switch includes first and second plates and a piston movable between the plates. Each switch also includes a phase change material configured to (i) expand to move a surface of the piston into a first position and (ii) contract to allow the surface of the piston to move into a second position. The surface of the piston thermally contacts the first plate and increases thermal energy transfer between the plates when in one of the first and second positions. The surface of the piston is spaced apart from the first plate and decreases thermal energy transfer between the plates when in another of the first and second positions. Different ones of the switches include different phase change materials that expand or contract at different temperatures.