New Technologies and Applications Inspire Growth of the North American MEMS-Based Sensors Markets, Says Frost & Sullivan

SAN JOSE, Calif., Nov. 11, 2002; Growth of commercial micro- electromechanical systems (MEMS)-technology is energizing the MEMS-based sensors market in North America.

Examples of these MEMS-based sensors includes MEMS accelerometers, pressure sensors, gyroscopes, radio frequency systems and integrated sensor platforms known as MICA.

New analysis from Frost & Sullivan (http://www.sensors.frost.com ), North American Micro-Electromechanical Systems (MEMS)-based Sensors Markets, reveals that this market generated revenues worth $1.3 billion in 2001 and is expected to reach $3 billion in 2008.

Market growth can be seen in highly advanced automotive applications such as inertial sensors, tire monitoring systems, the adoption of wireless MEMS sensing technologies in global positioning satellite systems and seismic monitoring.

"Lower entry barriers in less conglomerate markets and widespread use of MEMS-based sensors in aerospace and defense, industrial process control, and manufacturing infrastructure validate the emerging status of this industry," says Daniela Carrillo Research Analyst for Frost & Sullivan.

Collaborative efforts of academic and industry researchers provide a thrust to the development of sensor-based home diagnostic equipment such as infusion pumps, oxygen concentrators, hemodialysis machines, and blood glucose monitors.

Promotion of MEMS technology backed by the defense department, NASA and other government-based agencies, such as DARPA, is rapidly expanding market opportunities.

"New military applications such as airborne radar and electronic warfare systems increase the demand for compact, reliable, and low-cost MEMS-based sensors," adds Carrillo.

Strategic focus on niche markets as well as formation of alliances with key industry associations enables sensor manufacturers to stay ahead in the market. An example of these niche markets includes medical ventilation products.

Manufacturers can achieve greater economies of scale by implementing just- in-time practices that reduce lead time. In-house wafer foundries allow large manufacturers to directly supervise and streamline their production process.

"Extensive product lines and superior after-sales services provide the much needed product differentiation in this price-sensitive market," says Carrillo. "The development of reliable packaging techniques enables them to gain a competitive edge."

Ultra-precision processing facilitating reduction in transition time as well as a keen focus on synergistic sensing solutions drives companies to explore prospective applications.

"Chemical bio-sensing, biometric identification systems, photonics, and electronic warfare systems are just some of the sensing solutions that are being explored," adds Carrillo.