diff --git a/README.md b/README.md index dea7f79..becccb9 100644 --- a/README.md +++ b/README.md @@ -58,6 +58,7 @@ expect from the core classes from the ECE and CS programs at CMU. - [18-349: Introduction to Embedded Systems](electives/18349.md) - [18-447: Introduction to Computer Architecture](electives/18447.md) - [18-491: Digital Signal Processing](electives/18491.md) +- [18-614: Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS)](electives/18614.md) - [18-640: Hardware Arithmetic for Machine Learning](electives/18640.md) - [18-652: Foundations of Software Engineering](electives/18652.md) - [18-661: Introduction to Machine Learning for Engineers](electives/18661.md) diff --git a/ece_core/18614.md b/ece_core/18614.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6e049f6 --- /dev/null +++ b/ece_core/18614.md @@ -0,0 +1,25 @@ +# 18-614: Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS) + +| Category | Difficulty | +|:-: | :-: | +| HW | 7 | +| Project | 5 | +| Exam | 6 | + +## Course Overview + +This course covers fabrication and design fundamentals for Microelectromechanical Systems at the micro scale. Expect to learn basic principles from microstructure fabrication, mechanics of silicon and thin-film materials, electrostatic force, capacitive motion detection, fluidic damping, piezoelectricity, piezoresistivity, and thermal micromechanics. + +## What to expect + +- **Homework:** Weekly assignments based on the lecture and sometimes examples from the slides provided. Make sure to show all work and reference formulas step by step to maximize your grade. +- **Exam:** Expect at least one exam as the final, but it has changed year by year and some previous classes had a midterm. Extremely doable, but only if you understand the lectures and make use of the practice exams and homework provided. Also be mindful of time management on the exam as it is a huge factor and at times people may not be able to finish in time. +- **Final Project:** Usually done in groups 2-4 depending on class size that semester. Usually requires research, applications, and simulation (COMSOL) on MEMS devices discussed in class like resonators, pressure sensors, etc. Requires knowledge of fabrication techniques, mechanical stress equations and other pertinent information from the course. Groups with members from different disciplines helps and is encouraged. + +## How to do well + +- Start HW & labs early and make use of office hours session as soon as possible for help +- Improve understand lectures by reviewing supplemental slides and recordings +- Familiarize yourself with COMSOL program and setting up geometries and simulations +- Make use of the practice exams given from previous years as tools as you progress through units it is one of the most critical tools to prepare for the final +- Create study groups and pair with people from other disciplines to understand all aspects of the course, assignments, and succeed on the final group project