Overview
Our research is targeted at the design, fabrication, and characterization of futuristic micro/nano mechatronic sensing and actuation systems and applying them to create breakthrough scientific discoveries in physics and engineering.
We are continuously innovating new fabrication methods from robust materials. We search for alternate and cost-effective fabrication methods to develop novel sensing systems.
Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS) Based Inertial Sensors
The rapid development of micro-fabrication technology is allowing both academia and industry to pursue the mass fabrication of high-precision navigation-grade motion sensing. The technology once considered exclusively for aerospace navigation, is now being regarded as within reach for a range of day-to-day motion sensing applications such as smartphones, cameras, and gaming consoles. This research project searches for an innovative design, fabrication, and packaging prospect for MEMS based ultra-precision inertial sensors (gyroscopes and accelerometers) with robust mechanical materials that have never been explored before in MEMS.
Quantum-enhanced MEMS Inertial Sensor
Quantum technologies have the potential to significantly improve the performance of inertial sensor devices. Quantum-enhanced optomechanical devices leverage photonic light to precisely measure and manipulate mechanical objects, transforming them into highly accurate motion sensors. This project aims to develop a micro-to-quantum integrated MEMS device for inertial sensors that will provide the foundation for next-generation precision navigation. We integrate quantum photonic sensing to significantly enhance inertial sensor performance by detecting weak and ultra-small displacement signals with far greater precision than classical electrical readouts.
Quantum Dot based Sensing System
Quantum dots (QDs) exhibit unique electrical, optical, and mechanical properties due to their size-dependent quantum confinement effects. We are harnessing these unique characteristics of QDs to design and develop highly sensitive sensors with novel applications in temperature, pressure, force, and inertial sensing. We are developing novel synthesis, fabrication, and device architectures. The project also involves developing micro-to-quantum fabrication processes.
MEMS based Wearable Multi-Sensor Platform
Wearable inertial sensors play a crucial role in biophysical monitoring, providing valuable data for healthcare, sports, wellness, and research applications. In this research, we are developing novel sensing systems and multi-sensor fusion methodologies into one device with wired and wireless connectivity to track and analyze various aspects of a person's physical activity and physiology. The wearable multi-sensor platform that we are developing holds immense potential to revolutionize healthcare and individual lifestyles. By continuously monitoring vital signs, physical activity, sleep patterns, sports activities, and mental health indicators, these wearables empower users to proactively manage their health. They enable early detection of medical issues, better management of chronic diseases, and personalized fitness and wellness guidance.
Reconfigurable and Self-healable Micro/nano-fluidics
Lab on a chip (LOC) has been showing tremendous interest in biochemical and point-of-care applications by offering on-chip laboratory functions via a series of fluidic systems. LOC fabrications are primarily relying on 2D lithography-based methods. 3D printing in LOC fabrication is emerging as an easily accessible and cost-effective alternative. Current 3D-printed LOC devices require coupling with external fluid pumping (e.g. syringe pump) for fluid handling. We develop 3D printed LOC by eliminating the use of external power and pumps thus making it suitable for portable point-of-care (POC) testing. It is eco-friendly, disposable, and re-configurable to facilitate the development of the next generation of self-powered, portable, configurable, and disposable lab-on-a-chip.
Ultra-low Damping and Temperature Stable MEMS Resonator
MEMS inertial sensor employs a resonating mass (resonator) to detect changes in motion which is the central element of the gyroscope. Energy loss of the MEMS resonator is the primary barrier to achieving navigation-grade precision. Predicting the resonator's vibration characteristics (damping, stability, immunity to external vibration, and energy dissipation) is critical for minimizing energy loss. Our group is developing a new generation of MEMS resonators that are adaptable to the mass fabrication process with an optimum design derived from robust mechanical materials.
MEMS Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) based Navigation
There is a need for effective, standalone, indoor navigation devices that not only track users in unknown environments but also assist their navigation through obstacle avoidance and guidance. This project is developing a state-of-the-art stand-alone and portable navigation system by implementing improved and effective pedestrian inertial navigation algorithms in combination with environmental mapping in unknown environments. It offers an efficient alternative compared to the existing systems with greater functionality in dark, visually restricted environments, where this type of navigation system could prove the most powerful.
Ultra-low Damping and Temperature Stable MEMS Resonator
MEMS inertial sensor employs a resonating mass (resonator) to detect changes in motion which is the central element of the gyroscope. Energy loss of the MEMS resonator is the primary barrier to achieving navigation-grade precision. Predicting the resonator's vibration characteristics (damping, stability, immunity to external vibration, and energy dissipation) is critical for minimizing energy loss. Our group is developing a new generation of MEMS resonators that are adaptable to the mass fabrication process with an optimum design derived from robust mechanical materials.
MEMS Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) based Navigation
There is a need for effective, standalone, indoor navigation devices that not only track users in unknown environments but also assist their navigation through obstacle avoidance and guidance. This project is developing a state-of-the-art stand-alone and portable navigation system by implementing improved and effective pedestrian inertial navigation algorithms in combination with environmental mapping in unknown environments. It offers an efficient alternative compared to the existing systems with greater functionality in dark, visually restricted environments, where this type of navigation system could prove the most powerful.