Micromanufacturing Technology

This program option is currently under development with an anticipated start date of fall 2009.

The Micromanufacturing Technology program will train individuals in the basic sciences, fabrication methods, analysis/testing equipment and instrumentation utilized by this industry in the development and manufacturing of micro-sized components for medical devices, cell phones, laptop computers, PDAs, sensors, actuators/motors, MEMS devices, and other products.

Consumers are demanding ever smaller, more complex and smarter products. Cell phones, laptop computers and PDAs all have micro operational modules, such as tiny electronic devices and mechanical motors, which allow them to do more in less space. User interfaces are also becoming finer, as seen in the titanium casings, keyboards and color screens on new cell phones.

Some tiny devices are obvious but many are hidden inside larger ones. For example, the latest seats in high-end BMWs contain 30 or more small stepper motors. Modern automobile braking systems are loaded with small motor systems. New fuel injectors are complex structures with many microfeatures. Manufacturing these miniature products is a major challenge. Drilling and milling must meet the associated demands of miniaturization and accuracy. It is not enough to simply scale down the processes and geometries that work well for larger tools. Toolmakers must rethink factors such as force, vibration and temperature to develop tools that are appropriate for machining micro-features.

This program will prepare individuals to apply basic science, engineering, manufacturing principles and technical skills in support of engineers and other professionals in the development of prototypes, prototype testing and analysis, production line operations, systems analysis and maintenance, instrumentation, computer aided manufacturing (CAM) and automation, quality control, instrument calibration and report preparation.

Course descriptions for this program are under development. Please contact us with questions.