Microelectromechanical systems

Description

Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) are miniaturised electromechanical systems made using processes of microfabrication. MEMS consist of microsensors, microactuators, microstructures, and microelectronics. MEMS can be used in a range of appliances, such as ink jet printer heads, digital light processors, gyroscopes in smart phones, accelerometers for airbags, and miniature microphones.

Alternative labels

typology of MEMS
micro-electro-mechanical systems
typology of miniaturised electro-mechanical systems
MEMS
typology of micro-electro-mechanical systems
types of micro-electro-mechanical systems
types of miniaturised electromechanical systems
typology of miniaturised electromechanical systems
types of MEMS
miniaturised electro-mechanical systems
types of microelectromechanical systems
miniaturised electromechanical systems
typology of microelectromechanical systems
types of miniaturised electro-mechanical systems

Skill type

knowledge

Skill reusability level

sector-specific

Relationships with occupations

Essential knowledge

Microelectromechanical systems is an essential knowledge of the following occupations:

Microsystem engineering technician: Microsystem engineering technicians collaborate with micro-system engineers in the development of microsystems or microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices, which can be integrated in mechanical, optical, acoustic, and electronic products. Microsystem engineering technicians are responsible for building, testing, and maintaining the microsystems.

Microsystem engineer: Microsystem engineers research, design, develop, and supervise the production of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), which can be integrated in mechanical, optical, acoustic, and electronic products.

Optional knowledge

Microelectromechanical systems is optional for these occupations. This means knowing this knowledge may be an asset for career advancement if you are in one of these occupations.

Precision device inspector: Precision device inspectors make sure precision devices, such as micrometers and gauges, operate according to design specifications. They may adjust the precision devices and their components in case of any faults.
Microelectronics engineering technician: Microelectronics engineering technicians collaborate with microelectronics engineers in the development of small electronic devices and components such as micro-processors, memory chips, and integrated circuits for machine and motor controls. Microelectronics engineering technicians are responsible for building, testing, and maintaining the microelectronic systems and devices.
Optoelectronic engineer: Optoelectronic engineers design and develop optoelectronic systems and devices, such as UV sensors, photodiodes, and LEDs. Optoelectronic engineering combines optical engineering with electronic engineering in the design of these systems and devices. They conduct research, perform analysis, test the devices, and supervise the research.
Sensor engineer: Sensor engineers design and develop sensors, sensor systems and products that are equipped with sensors. They plan and monitor the manufacture of these products.
Industrial engineer: Industrial engineers design a vast array of production systems aiming to present efficient and effective solutions. They integrate a varied number of variables such as workers, technology, ergonomics, production flows, and product specifications for the design and implementation of production systems. They can specify and design for microsystems as well.
Mechanical engineer: Mechanical engineers research, plan and design mechanical products and systems and supervise the fabrication, operation, application, installation and repair of systems and products. They research and analyse data.
Electromechanical engineer: Electromechanical engineers design and develop equipment and machinery that use both electrical and mechanical technology. They make draughts and prepare documents detailing the material requisitions, the assembly process and other technical specifications. Electromechanical engineers also test and evaluate the prototypes. They oversee the manufacturing process.
Electrical engineer: Electrical engineers design and develop electrical systems, electrical equipment, components, motors, and equipment with the feature of energy transmission. They engage in large scale projects such as the design and maintenance of power stations, and the distribution of power to smaller applications such as household appliances.
Microelectronics engineer: Microelectronics engineers design, develop, and supervise the production of small electronic devices and components such as micro-processors and integrated circuits.
Mechatronics engineer: Mechatronics engineers design and develop intelligent systems, such as robotic devices, smart home appliances, and aeroplanes, through combining technologies from mechanical, electronic, computer, and control engineering. They create blueprints or design documents for parts, assemblies or finished products using software programs, and also oversee and manage projects.
Optical engineer: Optical engineers design and develop different industrial applications with optics. They have knowledge of light, light transmission principles, and optics in order to design engineering specs of equipment such as microscopes, lenses, telescopes, and other optical devices.
Automation engineer: Automation engineers research, design, and develop applications and systems for the automation of the production process. They implement technology and reduce, whenever applicable, human input to reach the full potential of industrial robotics. Automation engineers oversee the process and ensure all systems run safely and smoothly.

 


 

References

  1. Microelectromechanical systems – ESCO

 

Last updated on September 20, 2022