The NanoHand Project will develop a system for the automatic handling of nano sized objects.

 

The short term perspective (CNT decorated SPM tips) provides enabling technology to further advances in atomic force microscopy (AFM) which will in turn foster the predicted long term perspective of the project for handling and assembly of nano-sized objects for the construction of nanoelectronic devices and other uses outlined below. The dissemination of knowledge and use of multipliers such as an Enterprise Grouping, web and traditional publications, trade fairs, seminars and training courses will open doors to the nanoworld for innovating SMEs, students and new markets and will additionally inform the nano expert field.

 

The long term perspective (CNT enriched Nanoelectronics) also offers noteworthy benefits to the economic growth, job creation and – above all – market share and expertise of Europe in the worldwide arena. The project will develop techniques and production methods which will push future technological development to new boundaries. Innovating companies will be assisted in involvement in the outputs and will also be encouraged to use the project outputs in new and unexpected ways. The industrial impact of NanoHand will therefore not be confined to a small number of existing technology suppliers and interest groups but will, in fact, be open to exploitation by a wide and diverse group of large, medium and small businesses including entrepreneurs seeking new markets and products.

 

The NanoHand Project not only fits well with the current strategic aims and objectives of the European Commission but also leads well into the objectives for Nanoelectronics and Nanotechnologies identified by Thematic Group 2 for Framework Programme 7 in 'Beyond the Horizon' published in January 2006.

 

Two dedicated demonstrators will be built up, targeting a short term and a long term perspective.

 

Both demonstrators will boost access to the nanoworld. Demonstrator a) by providing increased resolution and greater functionality for Scanning Probe Microscopes and b) by enabling the production of totally new nano-electronic devices.