Nanotechnology

In Japanese&sbquo "nanotechnology" is translated as chyou-bisaika-kakogijutsu (ultra-miniaturization processing technology) or gokubi-kagaku no gijutsuka (technology of ultramicroscopic science). Miniaturization is processing or measuring with precision down to the nanometer (nm)&sbquo which is 1 billionth of a meter. It aims at realizing measurement and processing technology to realize dimensions of 10 mm3 and smaller with micro-machines&sbquo and is a symbol or concept of state-of-the-art science and technology. The smallest processing dimension realized in industrial technology today is approximately 90 nm. In more specific terms&sbquo for example&sbquo the number of transistors that could be mounted on one semiconductor chip 30 years ago was approximately 2&sbquo000&sbquo but the number leapt to as high as 45 million on a same size chip in 2000. This is a clear example of the astounding advance of miniaturization processing technology. In this way&sbquo "nanotechnology" is a general term for a technology that aims at developing materials using nano-particles&sbquo molecules&sbquo atoms&sbquo and even DNA as well as technology to realize miniaturization down to the nanometer using micro-machines. The technology has a strong relationship with three fields: IT&sbquo biotechnology and environment. In reality&sbquo however&sbquo and despite the general hype&sbquo what has been realized so far in nanotechnology is still at the level of nano-particle coating and coating technology&sbquo and there is a large gap between people's image of nanotechnology and its reality. The word is surrounded by idealism and fantasies&sbquo and some people see it as just a faddish appellation. There is no doubt&sbquo however&sbquo that the possibilities in this field are high through miniaturization processing technology based on mid- and long-term perspectives in technological development. It is also necessary&sbquo from the viewpoint of the fusion of nanotechnology and design&sbquo to introduce design into fields that are subject to nanotechnology along with computer assisted design skills.

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