Miniaturization

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Miniaturization (also spelled miniaturisation) is a continuing trend in technology toward ever-smaller scales for first mechanical, then optical and most recently electronic devices. The trend can be traced back to ancient times both as an abstract science and a physical practice, beginning with atomic theories of the nature of matter and the use of early microscopes and leading, centuries later, to the current sciences of nanotechnology and molecular nanotechnology. In electronics the miniaturization is witnessed by an empiricial observation called Moore's Law that predicts that the number of transistors on an integrated circuit for minimum component cost doubles every 24 months.^[1]^[2]

We live in a world of miniaturization. The human race wants to use things which took less space like in the field of mobile phone, from the first generation to the third one, which we use actually (3g mobile) there is a general decrease in its size and weight. Even nanotechnology can be linked to it, scientists are actually searching in how to create a car with the use of this technology. See nanocar

1 The Tininess Race
2 How the concept of miniaturisation was developed
3 Miniaturization in science fiction
4 References
5 External links

[edit] The Tininess Race

The race toward miniaturization particularly divided in East vs. West fashion, led by Japan in the East and (among others) Germany in the West. One (apocryphal)^{[citation needed]} story recounts that a drill bit of tiny proportions was sent to Japan - only to return with a hole drilled through it.^{[dubious – discuss]}

[edit] How the concept of miniaturisation was developed

The technological spin off of the space research program is considered as a major justification for projects which in the 1950s seemed to have no economic significance. By spin off is meant the technical benefits which conventional industries have derived from the technology of space research. Products used in the construction of rockets, satellites, guidance and telemetrical systems, space stations must be light yet rugged. With the ability to withstand wide variation in temperature, pressure, and stress. Technological research to this end led to the development of new types of rubber resistant to extremes of heats and cold; new alloys notable for their lightness and toughness; ceramics that are unbreakable; and plastics which neither melt nor decompose when extreme heat is applied to them. One of the most commercially important results derived from space technology is the development of the technic known as miniaturisation which in its turn led to microminiaturisation and subminiaturisation.

[edit] Miniaturization in science fiction

Main articles: Nanotechnology in fiction and Resizing (fiction)

Miniaturization is also a theme of science fiction. Beside referring to redesigning products to make smaller ones, miniaturization in science fiction also refers to shrinking things and people.