The first page of the MEMS story appeared in the 1960s when the world paid attention to the microelectromechanical systems and recognized them as the new-generation approach in technological environments. The compact tech units were possible to replace the former large-scale hardware and improve the driving, navigation, manufacturing, and other performances.
From C. Smith’s discovery of the piezo-sensitive effect and the invention of the 1st pressure MEMS sensor by J. Price, many changes took place in the context of the development of the microelectromechanical systems. The MEMS-based tech units are applied in various industries today. Some market niches together with their key players (huge tech corporations and holdings) drive for manufacturing of new 2 axis mems mirror models, sensors, gyroscopes, and other items.
What Are the Main Drivers for MEMS Development in 2022?
From the very beginning, the most important driver for the MEMS market development was the automotive industry. Now, there are many tech solutions based on microelectromechanical systems. The first pressure sensor invented in the 20th century was easily applied for the monitoring of the operability of the transportation units.
1 – Automotive Industry
The present-day automotive industry offers improved automobiles with the following MEMS-based solutions:
- Tire pressure sensors;
- Crash sensors;
- Accelerometers;
- Anti-skidding systems with gyroscopes;
- MEMS navigators, headlights, and windscreens.
It means that almost 80 years from the first microelectromechanical system production the automotive industry stays the leading niche with the focus on the progress of the MEMS market (including its size and volumes around the world).
2 – Healthcare Sector
But the corporations that make a specialty out of car, truck, and other transport manufacturing are not the only leverage that boosts the development of microelectromechanical systems worldwide. The second driver for the MEMS market growth is the healthcare sector. There is a wide range of medical equipment that demonstrates better performance and more accurate diagnostic results with MEMS-based sensors, accelerometers, gyroscopes, microchips, etc.
Speaking one more time about pressure sensors, these tech units based on the microelectromechanical systems are easily applied for the blood pressure testing equipment. The biomedical application of MEMS technology is not limited to some extra options added to the existing devices used in the healthcare sector. The huge step forth is microsurgery with the help of micro tools with MEMS-based sensors and chips.
Among the most notable examples of the microelectromechanical devices applied for biomedical purposes including diagnostic and surgery needs are:
- Digital cameras with accelerometers for stabilized and zoomed images during the operations and micro-operations;
- Micro scalpels with the MEMS sensors for artery operations;
- Diagnostic laser projectors and printers for better patients’ inspections, prosthesis modeling, and care.
3 – Electronics & Gadgets
Pocket screens like smartphones, tablets, and other gadgets together with powerful PCs and laptops are essential devices for modern users. Surfing the net, working, and shopping are online practices today. The customers would like to experience more and more convenience when it comes to electronics and different gadgets.
MEMS technology provides automated screen rotations and other supportive features that improve user experience and make customers’ devices up-to-date. For example, contactless mouses and game controllers contain accelerometers based on microelectromechanical systems.
Final Word
It is impossible not to mention other industries like construction, security, and manufacturing or production sphere are improved with the help of MEMS technology. They also can be considered the drivers for microelectromechanical system development for sure. But the most significant role for the MEMS market still automotive and healthcare niches have. This tendency is not likely to change in 2022-2024. But new drivers can hit the global arena and make a difference soon.