Commercialization of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)

Abstract

Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), at their core are a set of technologies that employ the processes developed in the integrated circuit (IC) and semiconductor industries to construct electro- mechanical devices. In the case of Microopticelectromechanical systems (MOEMS), optical elements are also integrated into these devices. MEMS technology holds the promise of significantly miniaturizing, reducing the cost of, and enhancing the performance of many sensors and actuators, evidence its widespread use in the manufacture of accelerometers, ink jet printer heads and various chemical gas sensors. Despite its stellar success in these "killer-applications," MEMS technology has failed to realize the widespread success many had predicted for it. Nonetheless, this technology has recently been explored extensively for new electro-optics applications, specifically in telecommunications for dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) and optical switching. This thesis examines various models of dynamic technology adoption and explores how they apply to MEMS technology. Furthermore, by way of historical comparison to the development of application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), it will identify various developmental similarities. Finally, a unique model outlining the critical driving forces behind the adoption of MEMS technology will be constructed.