Hi, I'm working on a topology synthesis problem for MEMS devices. My ultimate objective is to develop a tool which will give the topology of a compliant mechanism, which can be fabricated by a given surface micromachining process. The idea is to take in the process sequence as input data, and then perform FEM & topology optimization to come up with the compliant device, that performs the required function and is fabricable by the input process. Though, I am getting favourable results, for the process sequence i am using right now, i really dont know if i have really got it right, especially from the manufacturing point of view.What are the manufacturing constraints of a typical surface micromachining process that really affect the MEMS design at this stage?Is there any available literature on this subject.Would really welcome inputs from persons who have worked/are working on such a problem. Thanks. DS. See Dave Matthews Band live or win a signed guitar http://r.lycos.com/r/bmgfly_mail_dmb/http://win.ipromotions.com/lycos_020201/spl ash.asp