Description

This issue of Microelectronics TOE covers recent developments in flexible memory, smart antennas, and VLC systems. Innovations profiled include a graphene oxide-based flexible non-volatile memory by the University of Exeter, a dynamic thermal management technique for mobile hotspots in electronic systems by the Duke University, an active frequency selective surface-based smart antenna by the Jimei University, a fluorescent concentrator-enabled visible light communication system by the University of Oxford, and an embedded system for smart walking aids by the University of Ljubljana.

The Microelectronics TechVision Opportunity Engine (TOE) captures global electronics-related innovations and developments on a weekly basis. Developments are centred on electronics attributed by low power and cost, smaller size, better viewing, display and interface facilities, wireless connectivity, higher memory capacity, flexibility and wearables. Research focus themes include small footprint lightweight devices (CNTs, graphene), smart monitoring and control (touch and haptics), energy efficiency (LEDs, OLEDs, power and thermal management, energy harvesting), and high speed and improved conductivity devices (SiC, GaN, GaAs).

Miniaturization, a move toward lower power consumption, and the need for enhanced features are driving innovations in the electronics sector. Technology focus areas include semiconductor manufacturing and design, flexible electronics, 3D integration/IC, MEMS and NEMS, solid state lighting, advanced displays, nanoelectronics, wearable electronics, brain computer interface, advanced displays, near field communication, and next generation data storage or memory.

Keywords: Visible light communication, VLC, smart antenna, flexible memory, smart walking, thermal management