Liwei Lin (Advisor)

The project aims to develop micromachined biological photosynthetic fuel cells (uPFC) for two classes of devices: (1) micro-scale mobile sensors and micro communication devices and (2) nano-scale molecular motors such as ATP synthase and myosin. For the first class of devices, the uPFCs are competing technologies to other micro power sources such as micro batteries, micro engines, and thin-film solar cells. However, for the second class, the uPFC is a pioneering effort to engineer power sources for future molecular and biomimetic devices.

Project end date: 08/26/...

Integrated manufacturing of nano-to-micro systems is critical for the practical applications of nanotechnology. This research project aims (1) to develop and characterize an integrated manufacturing process to connect nanostructures with micro scale systems and (2) to utilize the integrated structure for practical sensing applications.

Project end date: 08/31/05

In this project, Self-Assembled Monolayer (SAM) is investigated for possible MEMS packaging and fuel cell applications.

Project end date: 07/31/06

This project aims to develop a plastic energy harvesting system by utilizing piezoelectric ceramics to scavenge energy from natural motions for self-powered sensor applications. Plastic molding processes will be employed to achieve a low cost and high reliability/repeatability manufacturing process. Several piezoelectric configurations such as uni-morphs(THUNDER?), bimorphs as well as multilayers will be explored with particular focus on power maximization and highly-reliable structures in order to survive harsh environment. The ultimate goal will be the development of low-cost,...