Seminar: Using Nonlinearity to enhance Micro/NanoSensor Performance

Resonant microelectromechanical systems are key building blocks for many microsensor applications, including mass detection, inertial detection RF filters and timing oscillators, and actuators.  Especially in minimally-damped systems, nonlinearities are often present and can significantly effect performance.  This talk will consist of an overview of applications where understanding and cleverly utilizing nonlinearity results in improved device performance.   Performance optimization through nonlinear design will be utilized.  Applications including oscillators and sensors will be used to demonstrate the benefits in marrying nonlinear equations and micro/nanoscale devices.

About the Speaker

Kimberly L. Turner is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering at UC Santa Barbara.  Dr. Turner received her B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Michigan Technological University in 1994 and her Ph.D. in Theoretical & Applied Mechanics from Cornell University in 1999.  She joined UC Santa Barbara in July of 1999, becoming a Full Professor in 2008.  She served as Department Chair from 2008-2013.  Prior to her appointment as Chair, she was vice Chair for the Undergraduate Program from 2006-2008.  Kimberly’s research focuses on the understanding and utilization of nonlinear dynamics in micro and nanosystems,  Her current research interests span applications from chemical detection, RF oscillators, to biomedical applications.  She has published over 120 refereed publications, and has won numerous awards including an NSF CAREER Award, UCSB Distinguished Teaching Award, UCSB Academic Senate Graduate Mentorship Award, and the Michigan Tech Outstanding Young Alumni Award.  She is a previous Chair of the MEMS Division of ASME, and holds the rank of Fellow in that society.  Prof. Turner served as technical program chair for the 2008 Americas Workshop for Solid-State Sensors & Actuators (Hilton Head), and in 2010 General Chair of that same meeting, and is currently a board member of the Transducers Research Foundation.  Prof. Turner enjoys a balanced life, and when she is not in the laboratory, is an avid cyclist, golfer and shows Irish Setters.

Hosted by Professor Hanna Cho.