Selected, peer reviewed papers from the 14th International Conference on Precision Engineering (ICPE 2012), November 8-10, 2012, Hyogo, Japan

This work covers in depth the new patterns of manufacturing and technology transfer that are emerging as Japanese companies seek to harness Asia's technological resources, and to utilise them to compete both regionally and globally.

World-renowned economist Klaus Schwab, Founder and Executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum, explains that we have an opportunity to shape the fourth industrial revolu­tion, which will fundamentally alter how we live and work. Schwab argues that this revolution is different in scale, scope and complexity from any that have come before. Characterized by a range of new technologies that are fusing the physical, digital and biological worlds, the developments are affecting all disciplines, economies, industries and governments, and even challenging ideas about what it means to be human. Artificial intelligence is already all around us, from supercomputers, drones and virtual assistants to 3D printing, DNA sequencing, smart thermostats, wear­able sensors and microchips smaller than a grain of sand. But this is just the beginning: nanomaterials 200 times stronger than steel and a million times thinner than a strand of hair and the first transplant of a 3D printed liver are already in development. Imagine “smart factories” in which global systems of manu­facturing are coordinated virtually, or implantable mobile phones made of biosynthetic materials. The fourth industrial revolution, says Schwab, is more significant, and its ramifications more profound, than in any prior period of human history. He outlines the key technologies driving this revolution and discusses the major impacts expected on government, business, civil society and individu­als. Schwab also offers bold ideas on how to harness these changes and shape a better future—one in which technology empowers people rather than replaces them; progress serves society rather than disrupts it; and in which innovators respect moral and ethical boundaries rather than cross them. We all have the opportunity to contribute to developing new frame­works that advance progress.

The second edition of Hot Embossing: Theory of Microreplication will present the current state of the art in microreplication with a focus on hot embossing, nanoimprint, thermoforming, and roll-to-roll replication. Polymer processing, the theory of polymers and the processing of polymers are discussed in detail. Aspects of process simulation and the corresponding material models are also covered. The book contains in-depth analysis of processing processes and replication techniques including mold fabrication. Monitoring, data analysis and reliability of molded parts is also discussed. In the Second Edition new processes are included, including the process of micro- and nanothermoforming to generate 3D structures and the hot pulling processes to generate hierarchical structures with high aspect ratios. Based on hot pulling, "Nanofur for Oil-water-separation is a large-scale biomimetic application. Upscaling, especially the seamless roll-to-roll replication, is also explored. The book is designed to cover the entire workflow for a seamless lithographic sleeve.This new edition marks a substantial update of the previous edition, incorporating several new chapters. It is an important resource for materials scientists and engineers working in the areas of micro- and nanofabrication. - Comprehensively updated to include new techniques, processes, and variables that have come to prominence in recent years - Includes new chapters that address monitoring, properties of molded parts, 3D thermoforming, hot pulling, functional materials, smart surfaces, and upscaling by roll-2-roll - Discusses the entire microreplication process, from theory and processes to technology and mold to surface-oriented applications

Over the past decade the world has seen the rise of the fascinating and diverse field currently recognized as nanotechnology. This book covers a broad spectrum of topics within nanotechnology, including synthesis techniques, various innovative characterization techniques, growth mechanisms of nanomaterials, the physics and chemistry of nanomaterials, diverse functionalization methods, and the various applications of nanomaterials in biology, therapeutics, energy, food science, and environmental science. It also discusses applications of nanostructured materials, integrative applications such as nano- and micro-electronic sensor devices, as well as agricultural and environmental remediation applications. The book also includes a discussion of advances in functionalized nanomaterials (0D, 1D, 2D and 3D) and covers the early stages of the development of functionalized nanostructures, considering the future for 2D nanomaterials and 3D objects. Additionally, it includes a chapter on nanomaterial research development that highlights work on the life-cycle analysis of nanostructured materials and toxicity aspects. This book proves useful for researchers and professionals working in the field of nanomaterials and green technology, as well as in the field of nanotechnology. It should be useful to students and specialized researchers in a number of disciplines ranging from biology, chemistry, and materials science to engineering and manufacturing in both academia and industry.