Market Research Proposal to Assess the Market Opportunity for a Low-Cost Scanning Electron Microscope

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We are developing a portable, low-cost scanning electron microscope (SEM) that can generate 3-dimensional images of a sample or specimen held in normal atmosphere. Our system applies unique electron emission technology that enables a simplified overall design compared to traditional SEM systems. We anticipate that the overall cost to the consumer will be an order of magnitude less than existing alternatives. Design factors that enable this price point include a permanently-sealed vacuum tube, permanent focusing magnets, and a mechanical scanning stage. The use of an electron-transparent window at the end of the vacuum tube allows imaging to be performed in normal atmosphere, and a solid-state detector can be integrated with a smart device (e.g., iPhone, tablet) in order to facilitate cloud-based image processing/sharing, software enhancements, and general ease-of-use. We anticipate our invention will benefit several industries that rely on SEM for quality control, defect/failure analysis, and feature size measurement. These markets include microfluidics, membranes/thin films, biomedical devices, electronics/semiconductors, geological/mining/mineral, and metallurgy. This proposal outlines our plan to undertake a market study in order to better understand these customer segments and define our beachhead market. This study will be performed in collaboration with UBC's Industry Liaison Office and Optimal Innovations Group Inc. The study will comprise both primary and secondary research. The deliverable will be a detailed report that includes the next phase of our commercialization strategy.