Micromachines - disruptive technology for the next millennium
G. Beardmore
Smiths Industries Aerospace
The presentation will begin by defining the relatively new concept of a 'Disruptive Technology' and will explain the terms and definitions associated with the world-wide drive to manufacture both components and complete systems at microscopic scale. It will also consider briefly the origins and history of Microengineering, and the advantages of reducing the physical size of systems by up to four orders of magnitude. Basic fabrication technologies will be summarised, and illustrative examples of current and future developments and products presented.
Global strategies for Micromachine development will be considered, with special reference to japan and the USA. From a UK business perspective, the opportunities and problems associated with the technology will be highlighted, including the problem of finding engineers skilled in all the relevant disciplines. Current and future markets are summarised and the importance of Microengineering as an 'Enabling Technology', able to provide the 'Golden Chip' for any product, and will be stressed.
The presentation will conclude with a speculative look into the next Millennium and a warning on the consequences to individual businesses of ignoring this field. It concludes that Microengineering and Micromachines are potentially the most disruptive technologies of all time.
