Systmes Framework for Microprobe-Based Nanoscale Investigation

该提案的目标是开发和实施一个系统理论框架，用于建模、分析和设计基于微探针的系统，该系统将能够对表面形貌、物质性质、以及纳米级精度的探针和物质相互作用力。这项建议的智力价值利用了系统理论方法进行分析和设计，该方法使用实时模型，的技术，以解决与基于微探针的纳米级调查的关键挑战。 遇到的主要挑战之一是主探针的控制;微悬臂梁。目前，大多数方法不利用探针的模型来实现其控制。此外，还没有采用动态模式操作中的探针-样品相互作用的模型。在本提案中，将开发用于主探头实时控制的相关模型，并随后用于产生高带宽和高分辨率。该方法，将提供显着的进步，在成像能力，高达两个订单更快的成像比现有模式。 基于探针的纳米级研究的重要需求是将定位装置的范围增加到毫米级而不牺牲高分辨率（纳米级）。在该提案中，提出了用于远程高分辨率定位的现代控制范式，这将使关键的纳米尺度调查研究，特别是在生物学中。提出了基于模型的技术，将解决一个重大的挑战，即在真实的时间的物质属性和横向力表征的物质被扫描表面成像。更广泛的影响将包括变革性技术，这些技术将实现高精度，高带宽和大范围的纳米调查能力。因此，拟议的研究将转化为 技术和经济收益。这项工作是在动态系统和控制理论，控制应用和仪器技术的汇合。 参与的研究生将以独特的跨学科方式接受培训，使他们接触到不同的研究领域和与行业的互动。除了对研究生教育的直接影响外，该计划还将为高级研究生和研究工程师提供研讨会，为本科生提供研究经验，为高中教师和学生提供基于互联网的SPM设备访问。

The objective of this proposal is the development and implementation of a systems-theory framework for modeling, analyzing, and designing microprobe-based systems that will enable high-speed and reliable imaging of surface topographies, matter properties, and probe-and-matter interaction forces with nanoscale precision.The intellectual merit of this proposal leverages a systems-theoretic approach for analysis and design which uses real-time model-based techniques to address critical challenges associated with microprobe based nanoscale investigation. One of the primary challenges encountered is the control of the main probe; a microcantilever. Currently, most approaches do not exploit models of the probe to achieve its control. Also, models of probe-sample interaction in the dynamic mode operation have not been employed. In this proposal, relevant models for real-time control of the main probe will be developed and subsequently employed for engendering high bandwidth and high resolution. The approach, , will provide significant advances in imaging capabilities, by up to two-orders faster imaging than existing modes. An important need for probe based nanoscale investigation is that of increasing the range of the positioning devices, to the millimeter scale without sacrificing high resolution (nanometer scale). In the proposal, modern control paradigm is proposed for long-range high resolution positioning which will enable critical nanoscale-investigation studies, especially in biology. Model-based techniques are proposed that will resolve a significant challenge of matter-property and lateral-forces characterization in real time as the matter is scanned for surface imaging. The broader impacts will include transformative technologies that will enable high precision, high bandwidth and large range nano investigation capabilities. Thus, proposed research will translate into technological and economic gains. This work is at the confluence of dynamic systems and control theory, control applications, and instrumentation technology. The graduate students involved will be trained in a unique interdisciplinary manner that exposes them to the diverse research areas and interaction with industry. Besides its direct impact on graduate education, this program will provide workshops for advanced graduate students and research engineers, research experience for undergraduates, internet-based access to SPM-devices for high-school teachers and students.