-
Embedded strain sensor fibre
Micro and Nano Technology (MNT) offers entirely new methods of manufacture for sensors, actuators and displays. Creating structures and devices barely larger than the thickness of a human hair,MNT devices offer more cost effective solutions to new and existing problems than conventionally engineered devices.
The ATC MEMS experts have been active in the development of MEMS devices and fabrication techniques for over 25 years, creating solutions for commercial and military requirements. Our capability in MEMS technology runs across the product lifecycle from concept through detailed design and on to fabrication, evaluation and transition to volume manufacture. We are proud to have in our product portfolio world leading devices such as the Silicon Gyro, a device successfully developed and transferred to high volume manufacture, now delivering several million devices per annum to the automotive industry. Other devices provide functionality in inertial sensing, Radio Frequency (RF), optics, aerodynamic control, biological and chemical detection and electromagnetics.
Our MNT capabilities extend beyond our traditional engineering boundaries. Micro-fluidic and immunoassay technology offers the potential to develop devices for the rapid, accurate detection of biological and chemical materials.
We are investigating innovative methods for sampling and analysis techniques, developing novel solutions using MNT fabrication technologies, pushing the boundaries of the potential that micro technologies offer.
Building on our considerable successes and performance in MNT solutions, our fabrication facilities are offered on an ‘Open Access’ basis, enabling commercial customers to realise the benefits of MNT devices for their business. Our design and manufacturing skills and experience are available to develop devices optimised to individual applications, across all industries.
Smart materials deliver the ability to provide added functionality to traditionally benign structures. Technologies such as fibre optics
or acoustic sensors embedded within structures can, for example, ‘listen’ for sounds of impact induced damage or structural creep and provide detailed operational performance information vital to structural maintenance. Components and electrical circuitry can be ‘printed-on’ to materials using Direct Write techniques, replacing surface mounted wiring, improving performance and reliability. Our work with smart materials even extends to the investigation of active concepts such as self-healing structures.
Our success in delivering MNT and smart material solutions to commercial and military customers arises from our ability to form solution teams that are drawn from application engineers, designers and fabrication specialists. Drawing on the skill and knowledge base from across the multiple disciplines within the ATC and its technology partner and supplier network, we work in collaboration with our customers to deliver the optimum solution for technological performance and business value.
- Direct Write (DW) structures
- Embedded Fibre Sensors
- Inertial sensors
- Micro Electro Mechanical Systems (MEMS)
- Morphing structures
- Nano engineering
- Optical MEMS
- RF MEMS
