Micromachine Robot for Automotive Diagnostics, Visualization & Sensing

It is possible to dramatically improve the performance, reliability, and maintainability of vehicles and other similarily complex equipment if improved sensing and diagnostics systems are applied. Advances in microelectronics, micro-electromechanicalsystems (MEMS), and radio-frequency (RF) wireless communications are enabling new classes of smart, distributed sensing nodes that may be embedded in vehicles or used in highly portable and rugged diagnostics analysis units for automotive fluids. Wepropose to prototype and assess a lab-on-a-chip platform that allows multiple sensors to be configured for a specific application. Furthermore, the platform transmits data and receives command via industry-standard and secure radio frequency (RF) wirelesssignals. The platform securely allows remote updates to its resident software in the field.Improved system/subsystem diagnostics, visualization and sensing. Drastic reduction in lubricant fluid replacement in military and/or commerical vehicles andweapon-related systems and reduced waste expenses. Will allow for real-time data transmission enabling proactive logisical support including the visualization of maintenance needs for military vehicles and later in commercial vehicle fleets anddistributed industrial equipment. Later embodiments of the technology can have diverse applications in distributed monitoring and analysis, including homeland security screening of food and water supplies, toxic material storage locations, and othersensitive areas. The lab-on-a-chip platform could also be commercialized for biomedical applications, such as blood analysis, DNA screening, and long-term monitoring of health indicators.