Micromanufacturing Engineering and Technology

Chapter 1 Overview of Micro-Manufacturing

Yi Qin

Introduction

Manufacturing, as a general term referring to industry, is to make products that have been designed for certain applications. The meaning of ‘manufacture’ has, however, changed, especially during the last 20 years, in terms of what is being made, how it is made, how manufacturing is organized, etc. Manufacturing has been influenced not only by the increased demands on producing routine products and creating new products but also by social, economic and even political changes. The desire for a better quality of life, good health and high working efficiency has been one of major drives in the innovation of many products, such as new models of computers, cars, mobile phones, CD players, ...