The commercialization of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)
Name
43895679-MIT.pdf
Description
Full printable version
Size
6.53 MB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum (MD5)
cfc3c88471ac24747dcbe22ecdb6a5cc
Author(s)
Robinson, Gary Neil, 1960-
Advisor(s)
Edward B. Roberts.
Date Issued
1999
Publisher
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Abstract
Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) comprise a set of technologies for the micromachining and electromechanical integration of sensors and actuators. MEMS allow for the radical miniaturization of such devices, as well as for significant improvements in performance and cost over conventionally fabricated mechanical and electrical components. In this thesis, I attempt to assess the value inherent in MEMS innovations and to understand how companies have tried to capture that value. In doing so, I assess the pathways and prospects for the commercialization of MEMS-based devices. I have chosen to focus on two classes of devices: (1) micromachined accelerometers for crash sensing and subsequent air bag deployment in automobiles, and (2) microfabricated chemical sensing and analysis devices for detecting and quantifying gas phase molecules, analyzing complex molecular mixtures, and carrying out high throughput screening of chemical compounds. Accelerometers are an example of a MEMS-based sensor that has almost completely displaced existing electromechanical substitute devices. Applications of MEMS to chemical sensing and analysis, however, are less mature and widespread adoption is less assured. In both cases, I evaluate the opportunities in the new technology from several different perspectives: (1) the factors that affect the transition from innovative technologies to marketable products; (2) the economic, market, and strategic forces that influence the adoption of these products; and (3) the business models of companies that have attempted to profit from MEMS innovations. I conclude the thesis with a chapter on potential strategic market barriers to successful commercialization of MEMS-based devices.
Description
Thesis (S.M.M.O.T.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Sloan School of Management, Management of Technology Program, 1999.
Includes bibliographical references (leaf 80).
Subjects
Management of Technology Program.
MIT Department
Management of Technology Program.
Sloan School of Management
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