8. Applications to micromechanics and nanotechnologies

Since the late 1980s, new techniques for using conductors have been developed in two disciplines: micromechanics and nanotechnology.

• Micromechanics uses traditional etching processes to create devices that will not only have the two dimensions of planar circuits, but also a third dimension in depth, which will play an essential role in the device. Often, the depth is just a few micrometers, enough to create a rotary motor or an electrically-controlled moving micromirror. As far as the electronics are concerned, apart from moving reed switches, the parts are generally fixed. These switches are simple to operate. The assembly is an air bridge similar to that shown in figure 6. A thin layer of insulation is applied to the central conductor to prevent direct contact when voltage is applied between the central conductor and the ground plane....