Apps for teaching microsystems technology: imparting knowledge sustainably and linking it across disciplines

With several professorships, the Centre of Micro- and Nanotechnologies and numerous research and corporate collaborations, the associated micro- and nanotechnology research therefore represents a research and training focus at TU Ilmenau. "In order to meet the increasing demand for microsystems, the necessary specialists must be trained in the best possible way," explains Fellow Prof. Steffen Strehle:

This is not only about teaching the complex subject area of microsystems technology in a sustainable way, but also about enabling students to think critically and creatively and to combine knowledge in an interdisciplinary way so that they can find the best possible efficient and innovative solutions in their future careers.

As part of the "Controllable simulation of complex microsystems (MikroApp)" project, Prof. Strehle and his team therefore want to supplement tried-and-tested digital teaching materials and haptic 3D lecture models with interactively controllable apps. A multiphysical functional space can be tested via a software interface without the need for high computing power or special software - a smartphone is all that is required. The aim is to enable students to playfully control and evaluate the system behavior of microsystems and components even without in-depth knowledge of complex numerical simulations, for example by allowing them to set various system parameters such as geometries, signal frequencies or material parameters themselves. "The special thing here is that individual components and systems can also be described across disciplines," says Prof. Strehle: "For example, aspects of electrical engineering, mechanics and fluidics can also be linked and studied for complex geometries and material combinations."

The simulation should not only include idealized functions of individual components and entire microsystems such as pressure, force or motion sensors, but also illustrate the effects of miniaturization as well as technology-related geometric deviations and undesirable effects such as noise. The project will also test new examination and innovative teaching formats that support self-reflection and self-study. Prof. Strehle:

I am convinced that the active, playful experience of using the app will enable us to teach complex issues and technologies in particular, as well as the interplay between different disciplines, in a much more efficient, clear and sustainable way.

The new teaching format will initially be used in the Bachelor's and Master's degree courses in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Technical Physics and Micro- and Nanotechnologies in German and English. The exchange and double degree programs, for example with the Pontifica Universidad Católica del Perú in Lima and the École Nationale Supérieure de Mécanique et des Microtechniques de Basancon in France, will also benefit from this. It will later be transferred to other disciplines and degree courses.