11:30 – 11:50
Keynote
MEMS in AR/VR
As Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) devices continue to mature, the need for lower size, weight, and power (SWaP) components will only increase. One solution to this demand is with Micro-Electromechanical Systems (MEMS). MEMS devices have become ubiquitous within the consumer electronics industry, and their unique balance of SWaP and performance present a unique opportunity to address the challenges associated with AR/VR development.
In this talk, I will introduce the AR/VR technology space and discuss multiple ways in which the sensing and compute demands push beyond previous methods of interacting with digital content. Current MEMS integration within these devices will be highlighted along with the constraints and opportunities for future MEMS integration.
Ken Diest
Meta
Ken Diest is a Research Manager and Tech Lead at Meta’s Reality Labs, where he leads programs focused on MEMS and micro-actuator technologies. His focus is on developing these technologies from early stage through production to address critical opto-mechanical and display challenges in AR/MR.
A Materials Scientist by training, Ken’s prior work focused on tunable devices and materials with an emphasis on optical systems. He was the editor and co-author of the book Numerical Methods for Metamaterial Design, and has previously held technology development roles at Apple, MIT Lincoln Laboratories, and Northrop Grumman that focused on new displays and nano-photonics.
Company Profile
Meta builds technologies that help people connect, find communities, and grow businesses. When Facebook launched in 2004, it changed the way people connect. Apps like Messenger, Instagram and WhatsApp further empowered billions around the world. Now, Meta is moving beyond 2D screens toward immersive experiences like augmented and virtual reality to help build the next evolution in social technology.
