Future of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)

The development of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) based on micromachining and microelectronics technologies has been significant for almost a decade. However, it is unrealistic to consider micromachining technology as a micro version of conventional machining technology. As a matter of fact, micromachining technology stemmed from the planar technology of silicon and is basically a two-dimensional processing technology. On the other hand, it is obvious that a micromachine cannot compare with a conventional machine in strength and power. For the successful development of MEMS in the future, a simple rule is suggested by the experience gained in the past few years: try to avoid as much as possible mechanical coupling with the outside world while trying hard to improve the MEMS technology to enhance the mechanical power of the devices. In addition to that, the strategy proven to be correct for the development of solid-state sensors also applies: MEMS devices should mainly be developed for new applications with a vast market. Their substitution for traditional applications should not be considered as a main strategy of development. Based on these arguments, the future development of MEMS devices and technologies is further discussed in the paper.