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AUGUST 2023 I DESIGN007 MAGAZINE 67 components, we offer Microwave Global Mod- els, which scale with respect to part values, sub- strates, and solder-pad dimensions. In terms of part-value scalability, a single Microwave Global Model can cover a full range of part values for a vendor part series, enabling these models to be ideal for tuning and optimization, while taking into account substrate-dependent parasitic behavior of the component. Gallium-nitride (GaN) nonlinear device modeling is another area that we are very focused on. ese world-class GaN models are made possible by some of the measurement capabilities mentioned earlier. GaN models include advanced features like bias and tem- perature dependency and intrinsic IV access for waveform analysis. Another area to mention is 3D modeling. We offer encrypted 3D models based on detailed physical dimensions and material properties. ese models make it possible for designers to perform simulations that capture the coupling effects that can occur when components are located very close to one another. I've always wondered why semiconductor companies are so reluctant to provide accurate models. What are your thoughts on this? Developing accurate models can be a major challenge for companies. For one, since new models must constantly be developed, compa- nies must allocate a great deal of resources just to modeling. A team of RF engineers focused on modeling would be the ideal scenario for a company that wants to develop enough mod- els. However, companies must also decide how many RF engineers should be focused on modeling as opposed to product design. In certain cases, it may make more sense for a company to outsource model development so that it can focus more on design. is is where we can help. Instead of having to tie up resources to develop models, companies can turn to us. DESIGN007 Taking inspiration from nature, a team of researchers at Queen Mary's School of Engi- neering and Materials Science has successfully created an artificial muscle that seamlessly tran- sitions between soft and hard states while also possessing the remarkable ability to sense forces and deformations. Dr. Ketao Zhang, a lecturer at Queen Mary and the lead researcher, explains the importance of variable stiffness technology in artificial muscle- like actuators. "Empowering robots, especially those made from flexible materials, with self- sensing capabilities is a pivotal step towards true bionic intelligence," says Dr. Zhang. The cutting-edge artificial muscle developed by the researchers exhibits flexibility and stretch- ability similar to natural muscle, making it ideal for integration into intricate soft robotic systems and adapting to various geometric shapes. The potential applications of this flexible vari- able stiffness technology are vast, ranging from soft robotics to medical applications. The seam- less integration with the human body opens up possibilities for aiding individuals with disabilities or patients in performing essential daily tasks. The groundbreaking study conducted by researchers at Queen Mary University of London marks a significant milestone in the field of bion- ics. With their development of self-sensing elec- tric artificial muscles, they have paved the way for advancements in soft robotics and medical applications. (Source: Queen Mary University of London) Revolutionary Self-Sensing Electric Artificial Muscles