How do you keep up with the latest research and development trends in piezoelectric thin films in MEMS?

1 Search online databases

One of the most effective ways to find the latest publications and patents on piezoelectric thin films in MEMS is to use online databases, such as Scopus, Web of Science, IEEE Xplore, and Google Scholar. These databases allow you to search by keywords, authors, titles, abstracts, citations, and other criteria. You can also filter by year, journal, conference, or patent office. Moreover, you can set up alerts and notifications to receive updates when new articles or patents matching your interests are published.

2 Follow relevant journals and conferences

Another way to keep track of the current research and development trends in piezoelectric thin films in MEMS is to follow the journals and conferences that specialize in this field. Some of the most prominent journals are Journal of Microelectromechanical Systems, Sensors and Actuators A: Physical, Applied Physics Letters, and IEEE Transactions on Ultrasonics, Ferroelectrics, and Frequency Control. Some of the most important conferences are IEEE International Conference on Micro Electro Mechanical Systems (MEMS), IEEE International Ultrasonics Symposium (IUS), and International Symposium on Piezoelectricity, Acoustic Waves, and Device Applications (SPAWDA). You can subscribe to these journals and conferences, browse their websites, or attend their events to learn about the latest findings and innovations.

3 Join online communities and networks

A third way to keep up with the latest research and development trends in piezoelectric thin films in MEMS is to join online communities and networks that connect researchers, engineers, students, and enthusiasts in this field. You can participate in forums, blogs, podcasts, webinars, newsletters, or social media platforms that discuss piezoelectric thin films in MEMS. Some examples are ResearchGate, LinkedIn, Reddit, Twitter, and Piezo Podcast. You can ask questions, share insights, exchange feedback, and network with other experts and peers.

4 Experiment with open-source software and hardware

A fourth way to keep up with the latest research and development trends in piezoelectric thin films in MEMS is to experiment with open-source software and hardware that enable you to design, simulate, fabricate, test, and optimize piezoelectric thin films and devices. You can use software tools, such as COMSOL Multiphysics, MATLAB, or ANSYS, to model and analyze the piezoelectric behavior and performance of thin films and MEMS structures. You can also use hardware tools, such as Arduino, Raspberry Pi, or 3D printers, to create and control piezoelectric thin film devices and prototypes. You can access online tutorials, manuals, libraries, and repositories that provide guidance and examples.

5 Collaborate with other researchers and organizations

A fifth way to keep up with the latest research and development trends in piezoelectric thin films in MEMS is to collaborate with other researchers and organizations that work on this topic. You can join or initiate research projects, partnerships, grants, or competitions that involve piezoelectric thin films in MEMS. You can also attend or organize workshops, seminars, symposia, or courses that focus on piezoelectric thin films in MEMS. You can benefit from the knowledge, experience, resources, and opportunities that these collaborations offer.

6 Read books and reviews

A sixth way to keep up with the latest research and development trends in piezoelectric thin films in MEMS is to read books and reviews that provide comprehensive and authoritative overviews of the field. You can find books and reviews that cover the fundamentals, applications, challenges, and prospects of piezoelectric thin films in MEMS. Some examples are Piezoelectric Thin Films: Synthesis, Characterization, and Applications by R. Ramesh and D.G. Schlom, Piezoelectric MEMS Resonators by H. Campanella and G. Piazza, and Piezoelectric Thin Films for MEMS Applications: A Review by S. Prakash et al. You can deepen your understanding and broaden your perspective by reading these books and reviews.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?