May 6 2009
Technology experts from over 20 countries are in Edmonton, Alberta, for discussions on energy and the environment, topics of global importance and immediacy. The 15th Annual World Micromachine Summit is an international forum to discuss initiatives in micromachining and nano technologies and the way in which they deliver economic and social outcomes.
The Summit promotes dialogue amongst the delegates of scientists, researchers, and other key international decision makers who have the knowledge and expertise to influence the use of micro and nano technologies. The purpose is to gain a better understanding of worldwide business and scientific advancements that will shape the future.
"As a world leader in energy production and as a committed environmental steward, Alberta knows technology is the key to sustainability. That's why we created a strategy to build local micro and nanotechnology industries that can bring micro and nanotechnology solutions to the challenges facing the energy and environment sectors, and then to jurisdictions around the world," said Honourable Doug Horner, Minister of Alberta Advanced Education and Technology.
"Micromachines are the future of wealth creation. They are also at the core of entertainment devices or advances in healthcare. We're only at the beginning - able to see the possibilities of molecular-scale developments and larger micro vehicles used as new energy sources or the means to propel molecules of medicine to targeted disease sites," says Dan Gale, Chair of the Micromachine Summit and CTO of CMC Microsystems.
Micromachining techniques at the 1 - millionth of a meter scale are used to manufacture a range of mechanical devices that can become pressure sensors, accelerometers, lab-on-chip devices, microfluidics and optical devices.
Micromachine manufactured products can be used in devices or systems for medical diagnosis, detecting toxins in food or water, inertial navigation systems, airbag deployment sensors, oil drilling pressure sensors and temperature, optical, motion or chemical sensors used in industrial process.
This year's summit will be held from May 5 to May 8, 2009 at the Shaw Conference Centre.