PCBMEMS building blocks for sensors/embedded systems industrial electronics education

Printed Circuit Board Microelectromechanical Systems (PCBMEMS) laminates, also known as organic MEMS, are based on liquid crystal polymers (LCP), polyimide (PI) and FR-4 materials with the various sensing elements made within or on top of the printed circuit substrates. PCBMEMS technology enables new product research, development and new systems commercialization. Additionally PCBMEMS can be utilized as an instructional tool for teaching sensor and embedded systems concepts and production methods. We are developing teaching kits to enable instruction of integrated systems and sensors using PCBMEMS. The sensing systems that utilize this technology can be directed toward chemical, biological and physical sensing devices and embedded systems. Examples are provided of a multisensor system that measures conductivity, temperature and pressure, and a compact, configurable 3D system-in-package wireless module based on the 802.11b protocol. The systems made in this economical PCBMEMS format can be utilized in instructional courses on systems, technology education, and industrial electronics training.