Grant: Idea to Innovation
École de technologie supérieure
$125,000.00
Low-cost microelectromechanical systems oscillators for compact timing applications
FY 2024-25
Summary
Oscillators generate timing signals for digital or radiofrequency electronics. With the increasing carrier frequency requirements of Bluetooth and WiFi going into the 6 GHz band and with device miniaturization trends, especially in wearables like smartwatches, there has been an escalated demand for compact high-performance low power oscillators.
Traditional quartz oscillators struggle in compact contexts and under high mechanical duress. In contrast, microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) oscillators offer up to 80% smaller size and reduced power requirements, thereby excelling in applications where space and energy are at a premium. Their robustness against high shocks makes them suitable for applications ranging from wearables to avionic components.
This project aims to enhance MEMS oscillators for timing uses, drawing on Prof. Nabki's team's expertise in MEMS resonator and integrated circuit design. The team developed a patented prototype distinguished by its performance in the lab and air-based (not in vacuum) operation - a significant leap over existing methods in efficiency and production. Moving forward, with CMC Microsystems and C2MI's support, this initiative, which will include 4 HQP, 1 research assistant and 3 research associates, seeks to refine the technology further. Interest from leading firms like Microchip, IQD and Raltron highlights the project's potential and its alignment with startup commercialization goals.
These advancements are essential for supporting applications such as the next wave of 6 GHz Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technologies, where high-frequency stability, small size, and low power consumption are needed at a low cost. The outcomes of this project will establish a foundation for Canada's leadership in the global MEMS oscillator market and pave the way to commercial deployments. The project is in line with Canada's Semiconductors Council's action plan towards fostering innovation and supporting market development. The long-term aim is to move this technology from the lab to the market, spurring innovation and economic growth.
Program
Idea to Innovation
Recipient
Location
Quebec, Canada
Recipient Type
Academia
Type
Grant
Source
NSERC's Awards Data
As published
Application id
592656-2024
Name nom
Nabki, Frederic F
Department département
Génie électrique
Organization id
53
Institution établissement
École de technologie supérieure
Province en
Québec
Province fr
Québec
Country en
CANADA
Country fr
CANADA
Fiscal year exercice financier
2024
Competition year année de concours
2024
Award amount
125000
Program id
I2IPJ
Program name en
Idea to Innovation
Program name fr
De l'idée à l'innovation
Group en
RESEARCH PARTNERSHIPS
Group fr
PARTENARIATS DE RECHERCHE
Committee code
96
Committee name en
RPP Internal Decision Cttee
Committee name fr
Cté de décision interne - PPR
Area of application code
1207
Area of application group en
Advancement of knowledge
Area of application group fr
Avancement des connaissances
Area of application en
Information, computer and communication technologies
Area of application fr
Technologie de l'information, des ordinateurs et des réseaux de communications
Research subject code
2504
Research subject group en
Electrical and electronic engineering
Research subject group fr
Génie électrique et électronique
Research subject en
Integrated circuits
Research subject fr
Circuits intégrés
Field of research list names en
Not available
Field of research list names fr
Non disponible
Socioeconomic objective list names en
Not available
Socioeconomic objective list names fr
Non disponible
Application title
Low-cost microelectromechanical systems oscillators for compact timing applications
Keywords
frequency stability; low-cost; mems oscillators; mems resonators; microelectromechanical systems; motional resistance; quality factor; timing circuits
Application summary
Oscillators generate timing signals for digital or radiofrequency electronics. With the increasing carrier frequency requirements of Bluetooth and WiFi going into the 6 GHz band and with device miniaturization trends, especially in wearables like smartwatches, there has been an escalated demand for compact high-performance low power oscillators.
Traditional quartz oscillators struggle in compact contexts and under high mechanical duress. In contrast, microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) oscillators offer up to 80% smaller size and reduced power requirements, thereby excelling in applications where space and energy are at a premium. Their robustness against high shocks makes them suitable for applications ranging from wearables to avionic components.
This project aims to enhance MEMS oscillators for timing uses, drawing on Prof. Nabki's team's expertise in MEMS resonator and integrated circuit design. The team developed a patented prototype distinguished by its performance in the lab and air-based (not in vacuum) operation - a significant leap over existing methods in efficiency and production. Moving forward, with CMC Microsystems and C2MI's support, this initiative, which will include 4 HQP, 1 research assistant and 3 research associates, seeks to refine the technology further. Interest from leading firms like Microchip, IQD and Raltron highlights the project's potential and its alignment with startup commercialization goals.
These advancements are essential for supporting applications such as the next wave of 6 GHz Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technologies, where high-frequency stability, small size, and low power consumption are needed at a low cost. The outcomes of this project will establish a foundation for Canada's leadership in the global MEMS oscillator market and pave the way to commercial deployments. The project is in line with Canada's Semiconductors Council's action plan towards fostering innovation and supporting market development. The long-term aim is to move this technology from the lab to the market, spurring innovation and economic growth.
