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Full-Text Articles in Mechanical Engineering

Implementation Of A Mems Laboratory Course With Modular, Multidisciplinary Team Projects, John Lee, Stacy H. Gleixner, Tai-Ran Hsu, David W. Parent Jun 2007

Implementation Of A Mems Laboratory Course With Modular, Multidisciplinary Team Projects, John Lee, Stacy H. Gleixner, Tai-Ran Hsu, David W. Parent

David W. Parent

This paper presents the implementation and outcomes of a hands-on laboratory course in microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), co-developed by a multidisciplinary team of faculty from mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and materials engineering. Central to the design of the course is an emphasis on implementing modules that are able to overcome critical barriers related to (1) diverse academic background from different majors and (2) practical limitations in microfabrication facilities. These points are vital for promoting MEMS education, because they expand the student pool and reach audiences that need a cost-effective way to support instructional laboratory experiences in MEMS without the broader infrastructure …


A Development Framework For Hands-On Laboratory Modules In Microelectromechanical Systems (Mems), John Lee, Stacy H. Gleixner, Tai-Ran Hsu, David W. Parent Jun 2006

A Development Framework For Hands-On Laboratory Modules In Microelectromechanical Systems (Mems), John Lee, Stacy H. Gleixner, Tai-Ran Hsu, David W. Parent

David W. Parent

This paper presents work-in-progress in terms of a framework that we have structured to support effective joint development among faculty from different engineering backgrounds, spanning mechanical engineering (ME), electrical engineering (EE), and materials engineering (MatE). The framework is organized in short instructional modules designed to span not only major device types and different fabrication technologies, but also different levels of resource requirements. An example of using functional prerequisites--rather than course prerequisites—is presented for one module, wherein each functional prerequisite must be satisfied by at least one member of each student team that will undertake the module. Roles of the faculty …


Battery-Operated Atomic Force Microscope, Burford J. Furman, J. Christman, M. Kearny, F. Wojcik, M. Tortonese Jan 1998

Battery-Operated Atomic Force Microscope, Burford J. Furman, J. Christman, M. Kearny, F. Wojcik, M. Tortonese

Burford J. Furman

The design of a battery-operated atomic force microscope (AFM) using a piezoresistive cantilever is described. The AFM is designed so that all power to drive the scanning tube and detection electronics comes from a self-contained battery. The prototype AFM uses a 6 V, Ni–Cd, camcorder battery, however, any battery that supplies between 6 and 12 V may be used. Scanner control and data acquisition are implemented using commercially available software running on an external computer. The prototype AFM achieves a scan area of 53 by 53 μm, consumes 1.8 W of power, and can scan continuously for about 7 h …


An Improved Rotary Singulator, Burford J. Furman, J. M. Henderson Jan 1983

An Improved Rotary Singulator, Burford J. Furman, J. M. Henderson

Burford J. Furman

A new operating approach for a previously existing rotary singulator was developed which improves the versatility of the device. This was accomplished by the implementation of a modular mechanism that performed the basic functions of agitation, gating, pocket formation, and exit, all inherent in this type of singulation device.