Integrated Nano-to-Millimeter (In2m) Systems

A great deal of emphasis has been placed on integrating diverse functionality into a single monolithic device for the sake of smallness and performance – but what happens when a system with diverse functionality, materials and technology can not be fabricated monolithically? The integration of systems created from dissimilar elements, especially those that vary in size by orders of magnitude is poorly understood. This open forum article discusses a class of systems called " Integrated nano to millimeter " (In2m) systems, defined by their multiple size, diverse technology domains, and mixtures of electrical, mechanical, thermal, chemical, fluidic, and biological functions. The modeling, analysis and synthesis of these systems suggests analysis techniques, materials, manufacture and assembly transcending the capabilities developed within individual disciplines. The function and fabrication of a Safety & Arming device is presented to illustrate the In2m concept. Your feedback on this article is most welcome. Park, and a Full Professor with a three-way joint appointment in mechanical engineering, engineering research, and systems research. He serves on the Board of Advisors for various companies and consults for the U.S. Government, providing expertise in strategic planning in the area of electronic products development and marketing.