Beilstein Nanotechnology Symposium: Sensing with mechanical systems (SMS) - from the classical to the macroscopic quantum regime

Introduction

Mechanical systems have been a cornerstone in measurement science throughout history, and progress in measurement technology has been tightly connected with our ability to assemble, control, and understand mechanical systems. This development continues today with advancement in micro- and nanofabrication led to an explosion of novel micro- and even macro-mechanical sensing systems. These systems span the full continuum from basic science applications like atomic force microscopy or mass spectrometry to industrial products like inertial sensors or microphones. In recent years, breakthroughs in opto- and electromechanics demonstrated that mechanical systems can reach the quantum regime. Such mechanical quantum systems not only allow for fundamental tests of quantum mechanics and gravity, but also provide an avenue towards unprecedented sensitivity in established sensing applications. Following this path requires understanding of both quantum measurement and classical sensing. This symposium will bring together scientists working in both the classical and quantum regimes to discuss new ideas and explore connections between different branches of mechanical sensing.