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mininginnovationnews.com 2014 000054.txt

#Panorama Synergy demonstrates viability of Lumimems Reader Panorama Synergy announces that through extensive laboratory testing it has demonstrated the viability of its unique laser-based Optical Readout System, the Lumimems Reader. In partnership with the University of Western australia, Panorama has developed a patented optical reader for Micro Electro Mechanical systems (EMS which enables the detection and measurement of previously undetectable substances. As a result, the Company has commenced the development first generation systems for potential new end market applications. The Lumimems Reader is able to operate in air, water and other fluids or in a vacuum therefore can be applied to bed side patient care, the detection of lung cancer, detecting peanuts in food, and dangerous gases in mines. Panorama anticipates that one of its initial first generation systems will be applicable to the mining sector, targeting improved exploration outcomes and safety. MEMS are sensitive measuring systems smaller than the width of a human hair. Among other things, MEMS devices are able to measure acceleration, gravity, chemicals, the indicators of disease or the presence of explosives. All MEMS devices need a readout system to assess and communicate the data that is measured. Currently MEMS readers measure and communicate information electronically, which is subject to interference from electrical oisefrom nearby devices and the environment. The only alternative technology, which is more sensitive and therefore more accurate, is an optical system using a laser directed at a MEMS sensor. However, these are currently only able to operate in laboratories due to their size (similar to that of a washing machine), sensitivity to vibration, and the need to precisely align the laser with the tip of the tiny MEMS sensor. In addition, these readers can usually only measure one, or very few MEMS sensors at a time. By contrast Panorama Lumimems Reader is a portable, robust and autonomous readout system which combines the accuracy and sensitivity of the optical reader with the size and portability of the electrically based system, without the shortcomings of interference from noise or vibration. It is therefore able to be deployed in harsh environments such as down a drill hole or inside the cylinder shaft of a car engine, being much more heat resistant than an electrical system. In addition, a chip that has several hundred MEMS sensors can be read simultaneously by one Lumimems Reader, therefore it is statistically more accurate than laboratory mounted optical systems. Its integration into silicon will use well known proven techniques already widely used in the likes of smart phones, cars and airplanes. It has been estimated there are already 50 MEMS sensors in a modern car. The MEMS market is estimated to be $14 billion in 2014, growing to over $22 billion by 2018, a CAGR of 13%per annum. These estimates do not include the potential for opening new markets w

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