Patent Publication Number: US-9413405-B2

Title: Microelectronic device with integrated energy source

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/764,432, entitled “MICROELECTRONIC DEVICE WITH INTEGRATED ENERGY SOURCE,” currently allowed which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/180,540, filed Jul. 11, 2011, entitled “MICROELECTRONIC DEVICE WITH INTEGRATED ENERGY SOURCE,” now U.S. Pat. No. 8,373,559; which was a continuation U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/467,703, filed May 18, 2009, entitled “MICROELECTRONIC DEVICE WITH INTEGRATED ENERGY SOURCE,” now U.S. Pat. No. 7,989,936; which was a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/259,567, filed Oct. 25, 2005, entitled “MICROELECTRONIC DEVICE WITH INTEGRATED ENERGY SOURCE,” now U.S. Pat. No. 7,557,433; which claimed priority to and the benefit of the earlier filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/621,900, filed Oct. 25, 2004, entitled “Microelectronic device with integrated energy source,”. This application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/685,825, filed Oct. 13, 2003, entitled “Integrated circuit package with laminated power cell having coplanar electrode,” now U.S. Pat. No. 7,230,321. 
     The entire disclosure of each of the above applications/patents is hereby incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     The continued physical feature size reduction and scaling of self-sustaining, low power consuming, and other microelectronic devices is currently limited in enclosure packaging reductions by the inclusion of a dedicated energy source for operation. For example, many current and future applications require self-sustaining integrated circuit packages and other microelectronic device packages that are able to perform specific functions and operate as independent elements within a sensory, communications, and/or computational network or domain. Such microelectronic device types may be or include single or mixed types of device technologies based on analog, digital, organic, molecular, nano-electronic, micro-electro-mechanical (MEMS), and nano-electro-mechanical (NEMS), among other device type technologies. Existing integration methods which include processes to assemble microelectronic devices with dedicated energy sources into a single product often require excessive semiconductor substrate real estate and/or complex interconnection processes to produce a self-sustainable and operational microelectronic product. 
     Microelectronic devices in current applications may be utilized as sensors and/or actuators, such as applications in the automotive, telecommunication, computing, consumer, medical, aerospace, and agriculture industries, among others. Such devices may be utilized to sense environmental and/or material characteristics, such as temperature, pressure, voltage, vibration and composition, among others. Such devices may also be employed to trigger actuators for any number of other electrical or mechanical devices. However, while data detected by such devices may be wirelessly transmitted to or received from a peripheral unit through existing wireless protocols (e.g., IEEE 802.11, BLUETOOTH, WiFi, WiMAX, software defined radio, and ultra wide band (UWB), among others) the devices must still be tethered or “plugged-in” to a power source to enable the sensing and wireless processing events. This fact can impose significant limitations on the implementation of sensors in many applications. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Aspects of the present disclosure are best understood from the following detailed description when read with the accompanying figures. It is emphasized that, in accordance with the standard practice in the industry, various features are not drawn to scale. In fact, the dimensions of the various features may be arbitrarily increased or reduced for clarity of discussion. 
         FIG. 1A  is a sectional view of at least a portion of an embodiment of apparatus in an intermediate stage of manufacture according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 1B  is a sectional view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 1A  in a subsequent stage of manufacture. 
         FIG. 1C  is a sectional view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 1B  in a subsequent stage of manufacture. 
         FIG. 2A  is a sectional view of at least a portion of an embodiment of apparatus in an intermediate stage of manufacture according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 2B  is a sectional view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 2A  in a subsequent stage of manufacture. 
         FIG. 2C  is a sectional view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 2B  in a subsequent stage of manufacture. 
         FIG. 2D  is a sectional view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 2C  in a subsequent stage of manufacture. 
         FIG. 3  is a sectional view of at least a portion of an embodiment of apparatus according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 4A  is an exploded perspective view of at least a portion of an embodiment of apparatus according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 4B  is another view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 4A . 
         FIG. 4C  is a sectional view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 4A . 
         FIG. 5A  is a top view of at least a portion of an embodiment of apparatus according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 5B  is a left side view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 5A . 
         FIG. 5C  is a bottom view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 5A . 
         FIG. 5D  is a right side view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 5A . 
         FIG. 5E  is an exploded perspective view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 5A  demonstrating a subsequent stage of manufacture according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 5F  is an exploded perspective view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 5E  demonstrating a subsequent stage of manufacture according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 5G  is a bottom view of an at least a portion of one embodiment of an apparatus according to aspects of the present disclosure, which may be a portion of the apparatus shown in  FIGS. 5A-5F . 
         FIG. 5H  is another perspective view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 5E . 
         FIG. 6A  is a schematic view of at least a portion of an embodiment of apparatus according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 6B  is a schematic view of at least a portion of another embodiment of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 6A . 
         FIG. 7  is a schematic view of at least a portion of an embodiment of apparatus according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 8A  is a schematic view of another embodiment of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 8B  is a schematic view of another embodiment of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 8C  is a schematic view of another embodiment of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 8D  is a schematic view of another embodiment of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 8E  is a schematic view of another embodiment of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 9A  is a schematic view of a system and apparatus according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 9B  is a schematic view an embodiment of apparatus shown in  FIG. 9A . 
         FIG. 9C  is a schematic view an embodiment of apparatus shown in  FIG. 9A . 
         FIG. 9D  is a schematic view an embodiment of apparatus shown in  FIG. 9A . 
         FIG. 9E  is a flow-chart diagram of at least a portion of an embodiment of logic structure according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 9F  is a flow-chart diagram of at least a portion of an embodiment of logic structure according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 9G  is a flow-chart diagram of at least a portion of an embodiment of logic structure according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 10  is a schematic view of a system and apparatus according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 11  is a schematic view of a system and apparatus according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 12  is a schematic view of a system and apparatus according to aspects of the present disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     It is understood that the following disclosure provides many different embodiments, or examples, for implementing different features, apparatus and methods according to aspects disclosed herein. Specific examples are described below to simplify the present disclosure. These are, of course, merely examples and are in no way intended to be limiting. In addition, the present disclosure may repeat reference numerals and/or letters in the various examples. This repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not in itself dictate a relationship between the various embodiments and/or configurations discussed. Moreover, the formation of a first feature over or on a second feature in the description that follows may include embodiments in which the first and second features are formed in direct contact, and may also include embodiments in which additional features may be formed interposing the first and second features, such that the first and second features may not be in direct contact. 
     Exemplary processes which demonstrate the high complexity of interconnecting the individual operations of a multifunction integrated circuit and an energy source (whether the energy source is an energy generating device and/or an energy storage device) become readily apparent when examining the mechanical dimensions of micro- or nano-scale devices designed for substantially autonomous operation. Historically, integrated circuit feature dimensions (e.g., gate widths) of microelectronic, MEMS and other micro-scale devices have reduced in physical size from about 2.0 μm to today&#39;s envisioned 0.35 μm or smaller. For currently envisioned nanoelectronic, NEMS and other nano-scale devices, feature dimensions are predicted to be as small as about 2 nm, if not smaller. 
     However, for the purposes of the present disclosure, one may additionally or alternatively consider microelectronic and other micro-scale devices to have feature dimensions (other than or in addition to thickness) having an order of magnitude of about 1000 μm or smaller, whereas nanoelectronic and other nano-scale devices have similar feature dimensions having an order of magnitude of about 1000 nm or smaller. For example, the lateral dimensions of a microelectronic device feature may be about 500 μm, whereas the lateral dimensions of a nanoelectronic device feature may be about 500 nm. 
     Nonetheless, many aspects of the present disclosure are not limited to the exemplary definitions of scale described above. Moreover, aspects of the present disclosure may be applicable or readily adaptable to dimensional scales other than the scale employed in discussing such aspects. For example, aspects of micro-scale devices described or otherwise within the scope of the present disclosure may be applicable or readily adaptable to nano-scale devices and devices of other dimensional scale, and aspects of nano-scale devices described or otherwise within the scope of the present disclosure may be applicable or readily adaptable to micro-scale devices and devices of other dimensional scale. 
     The present disclosure introduces exemplary embodiments of solid state energy sources for providing operating power to integrated circuit devices. However, aspects of the present disclosure are applicable and/or readily adaptable to apparatus including energy sources integrated with other types of microelectronic devices. Such other devices may be or include, without limitation, micro-electro-mechanical (MEMS) devices, nano-electro-mechanical (NEMS) devices, nanotechnology devices, and/or other forms of silicon-based and other semiconductive electronic devices. These other embodiments, although not necessarily illustrated in the present disclosure, are well within the intent, spirit and scope of the present disclosure. 
     The existence of an integrated power source within an enclosed package, such as with a sensor, an integrated circuit and/or a wireless transmitter/receiver, may allow for vast improvements in the deployment of sensor-based microelectronic devices, and possibly the reconnaissance of information acquisition and communications methods thereof. In embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure, such a wireless microelectronic device may be employed in a mobile application, such as to monitor movements of cattle and/or other domesticated or feral animals. 
     For example, embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure may provide means for preventing cattle from crossing fences or other boundaries, or from straying into areas where they are not intended. Such means may include a microelectronic device attached to an animal, wherein the device may include sensors and possibly utilize a geographic database and/or communications protocol to wirelessly transmit the identity and/or location of the animal to a static “fence-post” unit, which may relay proximity values back to the device. At fixed (though possibly arbitrary) proximity intervals, the device may wirelessly actuate a mechanism for diverting the motion of the animal beyond a predetermined boundary. However, such a device might not be feasible in a rural setting without utilizing an integrated power supply and wireless transmission of data. 
     According to aspects of another embodiment of the present disclosure, a similar microelectronic device may be utilized in a static or quasi-mobile environment, such as within a hospital room. For example, electro-cardio-gram (ECG) devices typically employ electrical sensors to monitor heart rates and waveforms. Microelectronic devices can be used to sense these cardiovascular oscillations and wirelessly transmit them back to a peripheral unit for aggregation and processing. The peripheral unit may transmit a time-stamp signal to synchronize a plurality of wireless devices that are collectively utilized to constructively and cohesively sense the heart waveform. These devices, having integrated power sources, need not be linked through a plurality of wires to a power unit, which may greatly reduce the set-up time necessary to wire a patient prior to the performing the ECG procedure, and may also reduce the unpleasant psychological effect of having a plurality of wires connected to a patient. 
     Referring to  FIG. 1A , illustrated is a sectional view of at least a portion of one embodiment of an apparatus  100  in an intermediate stage of manufacture according to aspects of the present disclosure. The apparatus  100  includes an electrode  110  coupled to a frame  120 . The electrode  110  may comprise aluminum, copper, gold, and/or other electrically conductive materials, and may be secured to the frame  120  by adhesive, bonding, brazing, clamps and/or other mechanical fasteners, and/or other means. The electrode  110  may have a thickness ranging between about 2 μm and about 20 μm. However, other thicknesses are also within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, in an exemplary nano-scale embodiment, the thickness may range between about 10 nm and about 100 nm. 
     The frame  120  includes an opening  125  configured to received an energy device according to aspects of the present disclosure. The perimeter of the opening  125  may substantially or approximately correspond to a perimeter of a microelectronic device to be coupled to and at least partially powered by the energy device. The perimeter of the opening  125  may have a substantially square, rectangular, circular, elliptical, or other regular or irregular geometric shape having lateral dimensions ranging between about 7 nm and about 50 mm. For example, the lateral dimensions of the opening  125  may range between about 7 mm and about 9 mm in one implementation, while in another implementation the lateral dimensions of the opening  125  may range between about 1 mm and about 9 mm. In one implementation, the opening  125  has a substantially square shape having sides of about 1 mm. 
     The frame  120  may be formed by forming the opening  125  in a sheet or plate of frame material, which may comprise one or more ceramics, plastics, and/or other electrically insulating materials. Examples of the frame material include ceramic, fused silica, and/or silicon carbide, although other materials are also within the scope of the present disclosure. The frame  120  may have a thickness ranging between about 0.3 mm and about 0.8 mm, although other thicknesses are also within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, in an exemplary nano-scale embodiment, the thickness may range between about 1 nm and about 20 nm. The opening  125  may be one of a plurality of possibly similar openings formed in the frame material, and may be formed in the frame material by micromachining, laser machining, casting, molding, stamping or cutting, and/or or other processes. The frame  120  may also comprise more than one layer of materials, including electrically conductive and insulating materials, wherein the multiple layers may be joined in a vertical fashion by adhesive, bonding, welding, and/or other processes. 
     The electrode  110  may substantially cover an entire surface of the frame  120 , including the opening formed by the opening  125 . However, in another embodiment, the perimeter of the electrode  110  may more substantially correspond to the perimeter of the opening  125 . The frame  120  may also include a shallow recess or other indentation configured to receive the electrode  110 . For example, the electrode  110  may be coupled to the frame  120  by press-fitting or otherwise forming an interference or friction engagement between the perimeter of the electrode  110  and the perimeter of the shallow indentation in the frame  120 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 1B , illustrated is a sectional view of the apparatus  100  shown in  FIG. 1A  in which an energy device  130  has been formed or otherwise positioned in the opening  125 . An exemplary configuration of the energy stack  130  follows, although other configurations of the energy device  130  are also within the scope of the present disclosure. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the energy device  130  comprises a separator layer  130   b  interposing electrode layers  130   a ,  130   c . Each of the energy device layers  130   a - c  may individually comprise more than one layer, possibly of more than one material. The separator layer  130   b  may comprise manganese, titanium, vanadium, other solid electrolyte materials, and/or other materials. In one implementation, the separator layer  130   b  comprises lithium perchlorate (LiClO 4 ) mixed with polyvinylidene (LiClO 4 -PVDF). The separator layer  130   b  may also or alternatively comprise a lithium salt cross-linked with a polyethyleneoxide. 
     The electrode layers  130   a ,  130   c  form an anode and a cathode of the energy device  130 . That is, the electrode layer  130   a  may be an anode of the energy device  130 , and the electrode layer  130   c  may be a cathode of the energy device  130 , or the electrode layer  130   a  may be a cathode of the energy device  130 , and the electrode layer  130   c  may be an anode of the energy device  130 . In either case, the cathode may comprise dioxide, disulfide, pentoxide, and/or other materials. The cathode may also be impregnated with p-type or n-type elemental and/or nano-technology impurities, such as to enhance cathode charging performance and conductivity, possibly depending on the doping scheme employed in the fabrication of the microelectronic device to be packaged with the energy device  130 . 
     The anode may be or comprise a metal alloy film or foil that may be impregnated with lithium or lithium alloy impurities. The anode may also be impregnated with p-type or n-type elemental and/or nano-technology impurities to enhance anode charging performance and conductivity, possibly depending on the doping scheme employed in the fabrication of the microelectronic device to be packaged with the energy device  130 . In one embodiment, the cathode may be doped with a first impurity type (e.g., n-type) while the anode may be doped with a second, opposite impurity type (e.g., p-type). Of course, the present disclosure is in no way limited to any particular doping scheme of the energy device  130  or the microelectronic device to be packaged with the energy device  130 . 
     The energy device  130  may employ a lithium-manganese-dioxide chemistry, including those which are readily available commercially and/or otherwise understood by those skilled in the art. Another example of the energy device  130  chemistry may be lithium-titanium-disulfide (Li—TiSO 2 ) or lithium-vanadium-pentoxide (Li—V 2 O 5 ). Also, as discussed above, the cathode and/or anode may be doped with impurities, such as those typically employed in a semiconductor doping scheme. In that regard, the order in which the cathode, anode and separator  130   b  are fabricated within the frame  120  may depend on the fabrication processes of the microelectronic device to be packaged with the energy device  130 . For example, the cathode may be associated with (or fabricated concurrently with) an n-type semiconductor device substrate or layer and the anode may be similarly associated with a p-type semiconductor substrate or layer. The energy device  130  may have a thickness ranging between about 200 μm and about 1000 μm, although other thicknesses are also within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the thickness of the energy device  130  may range between about 300 μm and about 750 μm, such as about 400 μm. Each of the individual layers forming the energy device layers  130   a - c  may have a thickness ranging between about 25 μm and about 100 μm. In an exemplary nano-scale implementation, the thickness of the energy device  130  may range between about 1 nm and about 20 nm, such as where the thickness of each of the energy device layers  130   a - c  is substantially less than about 10 nm. 
     The anode may be formed by slicing a rolled lithium foil (possibly comprising battery grade, 99.8% pure lithium) into ingots to approximately 40 μm in length. The anode may also be alloyed with such metals as aluminum, manganese, and/or copper. 
     A polymer matrix used by both the separator and cathode material (e.g., layers  130   b  and  130   a , respectively) may be formed by emulsifying polymer resin pellets, possibly in combination with a plasticizer. The polymer matrix may comprise polyacrylonitrile (PAN), polyvinyliden fluoride (PVdF) and/or polyvinyl sulfone (PVS), and the plasticizer may comprise dibutyl phthalate (DBP). Additionally, the polymer matrix may also comprise one or more polymer additives, possibly including nano-technology derived additives, which may be formulated to enhance a specific operational or performance characteristic. The polymer matrix and plasticizer may be emulsified in acetonitrile at about 60° C. in a reactor vessel equipped with a nitrogen inlet, a reflux condenser, and a stirring mechanism. The resulting viscous solution may then be cast into a polymer substrate to yield a film thickness ranging between about 30 μm and about 100 μm. The cast polymer membrane film may then be dried, such as in an oven, possibly at a temperature of about 80° C., which may at least partially remove the acetonitrile casting agent. After being allowed to dry, the originally highly-viscous membrane may be a translucent, flexible polymer membrane that also contains a high-temperature plasticized structure for rigidity. 
     In one implementation, electrolyte components possibly consisting of Ethylenecarbonate-EC, Propylyenecarbonate (PC), and Lithium Perchlorate (LiClO 4 ), mixed in an exemplary ratio of approximately 52/41/7 by weight, respectively, may be used in the preparation of the polymer electrolyte film as described in the above-mentioned emulsification process. For example, the electrolyte solution may be heated, possibly to a temperature of about 60° C., and the polymer film may be placed into the heated electrolyte solution, possibly for a period of up to 8 hours, to allow the electrolyte salt to link to the polymer structure. When the polymer film is removed from the electrolyte solution, it may be cooled to room temperature, which may allow additional electrolyte and polymer cross linking. The resulting solid state electrolyte separator membrane may then be cut to a desirable width and length to complete the separator layer  130   b.    
     A similar process may be employed to form the cathode. However, such a polymer film employed to form the cathode may have a thickness ranging between about 300 μm and about 750 μm. Possibly employing the same type of reactor agent vessel with stirring mechanism, the polymer emulsion with plasticizer agent may be mixed with an electrochemical grade of LiMn x O y  spinel (FMC-Lithium) and a Super-P carbon such as Vulcan XC-72 (Cabot). For example, a mixture of polyethylene oxide containing high-temperature plasticizers, LiMnO 2  spinel (FMC-Lithium) and Super-P carbon (Vulcan-XC-72 Cabot) may be used in a ratio of approximately 55/42/3 by weight, respectively. The resulting polymer film may then be cut to a desirable width and length to form the cathode. 
     The energy device layers  130   a - c  may be formed or otherwise positioned in the frame  130  by pressing the individual or stacked layers into the opening  125 . The energy device layers  130   a - c  may be cut-to-size prior to positioning in the opening  125 , or may be trimmed after, or as a result of, their installation into the opening. In one embodiment, the energy device layers  130   a - c  may be individually or collectively compressed during or after their installation into the opening  125 . For example, the energy device layers  130   a - c  may be subjected to a compression force ranging between about 10 psi (69 kPa) and about 200 psi (1379 kPa). In one embodiment, the compression force ranges between about 30 psi (207 kPa) and about 50 psi (349 kPa), such as about 40 psi (279 kPa). The energy device layers  130   a - c  may be compressed until a desired thickness is achieved. Alternatively, or additionally, the energy device layers  130   a - c  may be compressed until a desired output current is achieved from a given voltage. 
     Referring to  FIG. 1C , illustrated is a sectional view of the apparatus  100  shown in  FIG. 1B  in which an additional electrode  140  has been coupled to the frame  120  and/or the energy device  130 . Consequently, the energy device  130  may be sandwiched between and possibly directly contact each of the electrodes  110 ,  140 . The electrode  140  may be substantially the same as the electrode  110 , and may be secured to the frame  120  and/or the energy device  130  in substantially the same manner, or via one of the other securing means described above regarding the attachment of the electrode  110  to the frame  120 . The compression process described above may be performed after the electrode  140  has been secured to the frame  120  and/or the energy device  130 , either in addition to or in the alternative to performing the compression process after the energy device  130  is formed in the frame  120 . 
     The above-described manufacturing process for fabricating the apparatus  100  may also include verifying a maximum relative flatness and/or parallelism of the electrodes  110 ,  140 . For example, the compression process described above may be performed sufficiently to achieve maximum flatness and/or minimum variation in parallelism of the electrodes  110 ,  140  of about 5 μm or less. 
     Referring to  FIG. 2A , illustrated is a sectional view of at least a portion of an embodiment of the apparatus  100  shown in  FIG. 1A , herein designated by numeral reference  100 A. The apparatus  100 A is substantially similar to the apparatus  100  shown in  FIG. 1A , although the apparatus  100 A includes multiple instances of the frame  120 , the energy device  130 , and the electrodes  110 ,  140 . 
     In the manufacturing stage illustrated in  FIG. 2A , a sheet or plate of frame material  120 A having openings  125  formed therein is secured to an electrode sheet  110 A The frame material  120 A and electrode sheet  110 A may each be substantially similar in composition and manufacture to the frame  120  and electrode  110 , respectively, shown in  FIGS. 1A-1C . The electrode sheet  110 A and the frame material  120 A may also be secured to one another in a manner similar to the attachment of the frame  120  and the electrode  110  discussed above. The electrode sheet  110 A may comprise a single continuous sheet or more than one sheet each corresponding to one or more of the openings  125 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 2B , illustrated is a sectional view of the apparatus  100 A shown in  FIG. 2A  in which an energy device  130  has been formed in each of the openings  125  in the frame material  120 A. Each of the energy devices  130  shown in  FIG. 2B  may be substantially similar to the energy device  130  shown in  FIGS. 1B, 1C . Once formed in the openings  125 , the energy devices  130  may be individually or collectively compressed, such as by the compression processes described above. 
     The sequence by which the energy devices  130  are assembled in the openings  125  is not limited within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, a first energy device layer  130   a  may be formed in a corresponding opening  125 , a second energy device layer  130   b  may then be formed in the opening  125 , and a third energy device layer  130   c  may be formed in the opening  125 , then this process may be repeated for each remaining opening  125 , individually. Alternatively, the first energy device layer  130   a  may be formed in each of the openings  125 , then the second energy device layer  130   b  may be formed in each of the openings  125 , and then the third energy device layer  130   c  maybe formed in each of the openings  125 . In such an embodiment, a sheet of first energy device layer material may be dispensed as a liquid into the frame, or as a solid sheet placed over the frame material  120 A and punched, pressed or otherwise positioned in each of the openings  125 , such as by a die or roller, and a similar process may be repeated for each of the remaining energy device layers. 
     Each of the layers forming an energy device  130  (e.g., layers  130   a - c ) may alternatively be pre-assembled to one another to form an energy device layer stack. Thereafter, the layer stack may be formed in each of the openings  125  one at a time, or the layer stack may be formed in each of the openings  125  substantially simultaneously. For example, a roller or die press having bosses substantially corresponding to the shape and position of the openings  125  may be employed to position portions of the layer stack into corresponding openings  125 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 2C , illustrated is a sectional view of the apparatus  100 A shown in  FIG. 2B  in which an additional electrode sheet  140 A has been secured to the frame material  120 A and/or each of the energy devices  130 . The electrode sheet  140 A may be substantially similar in composition and manufacture to the electrode  110  shown in  FIGS. 1A-1C . The electrode sheet  140 A may also be secured to the frame material  120 A and/or the energy devices  130  in a manner similar to the attachment of the electrode  140  to the frame  120  discussed above. The electrode sheet  140 A may comprise one continuous sheet or more than one sheet each corresponding to one or more of the openings  125 . The compression process described above may also be performed after the electrode sheet  140 A has been secured to the frame material  120 A and/or the energy devices  130 , either in addition to or in the alternative to performing the compression process after the energy devices  130  are formed in the openings  125 . 
     At the manufacturing stage shown in  FIG. 2C , the apparatus  100 A may be substantially configured to provide energy to one or more devices to be packaged with the apparatus  100 A. Portions of the electrode sheets  110 A,  140 A may be removed to separate one or more of the energy devices from one another. For example, two or more adjacent energy devices  130  may remain interconnected by portions of one or both of the electrode sheets  110 A,  140 A and/or frame material  120 , such as where the energy requirements for a particular device packaged therewith are greater than the capacity of each individual energy device  130 . Such an embodiment may be advantageous when a standard energy device  130  may be desired. However, in such embodiments where adjacent energy devices are interconnected by one or both of the electrode sheets  110 A,  140 A and/or frame material  120 , the layers employed as anode and cathode layers in some of the energy devices  130  may need to be reversed. 
     Referring to  FIG. 2D , illustrated is a sectional view of the apparatus  200  shown in  FIG. 2C  in which individual apparatus  100 B have been formed from the apparatus  100 A by dicing or otherwise removing portions of the electrode sheets  110 A,  140 A and/or frame material  120 A. Each of the apparatus  100 B may be substantially similar to the apparatus  100  shown in  FIG. 1C . Two or more of the apparatus  100 B may also be stacked in a single package, such as to provide additional energy capacity. However, in such embodiments, one or both of the electrode sheets  110 A,  140 A interposing two vertically stacked energy devices  130  may be removed. 
     Referring to  FIG. 3 , illustrated is a sectional view of at least a portion of one embodiment of an apparatus  200 A according to aspects of the present disclosure. The apparatus  200 A includes an energy cell  210  that may be substantially similar to the apparatus  100  shown in  FIG. 1C , one of the apparatus  100 B shown in  FIG. 2D , and/or one of the energy devices  130  shown in  FIG. 1B, 1C , or  2 B- 2 D. The apparatus  200 A also includes a device  220  to be at least partially powered by the energy cell  210 . An interface layer  230  may comprise or at least partially provide one or more interfaces between the energy cell  210  and the device  220 . 
     Although not illustrated, aspects of the present disclosure are also applicable and/or readily adaptable to other embodiments of the apparatus  200 A which may include more than one energy cell  210 , more than one device  220 , and/or more than one interface layer  230 . In such embodiments, the multiple energy cells  210  may or may not be substantially identical, the multiple devices  220  may or may not be substantially identical, and the multiple interface layers  230  may or may not be substantially identical. 
     The device  220  may be or comprise one or more integrated circuit devices, micro-electromechanical (MEMS) devices, nano-electromechanical (NEMS) and other nano-scale devices, organic electronic devices, other microelectronic devices, sensor devices, RFID devices, and/or a variety of combinations thereof. The device  220  may additionally or alternatively comprise a plurality of transistors, capacitors, inductors, analog signal processing devices, memory devices, logic devices, and/or other microelectronic devices interconnected by, for example, a plurality of electrically conductive vias, landing pads, and/or other forms of electrically conductive interconnects. Several of such devices and interconnects are collectively designated by reference numeral  222  in  FIG. 3 . 
     Although not limited as with within the scope of the present disclosure, the device  220  may be any device having electrically conductive contacts  225  configured for connection with an energy source. Such devices may be formed on and/or in a substrate  227  substantially comprising silicon, or a variety of other semiconductor materials, and/or a variety of other substrate suitable materials. In one embodiment, such a device having such a substrate  227  may include electrically conductive contacts, vias or other electrically conductive members  225  extending at least partially into or through the substrate  227  to a bottom or other surface for interconnection with the energy cell  210  via the interface layer  230 . The conductive members  225  may electrically couple the energy cell  210 , at least indirectly, with one or more of the individual devices which compose the device  220 . The device  220  may also or alternatively include or otherwise be electrically interconnected by wire bonds to the energy cell  210 . The device  220  may also or alternatively be electrically connected to the energy cell  210  via the interface layer  230  by flip-chip mounting or other processes employing stud bumps, solder balls, and/or electrically conductive epoxy or other adhesives. 
     The interface layer  230  may comprise one or more layers of various electrically conductive and/or electrically insulating materials. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 3A , the interface layer  230  comprises a number of electrically conductive members  235  configured to interconnect contacts  225  of the device  220  with the energy cell  210 . The electrically conductive members  235  may comprise aluminum, copper, gold, tungsten, conductive epoxy and other electrically conductive adhesives, solder, and/or other materials. Gaps  237  between the conductive members  235  may substantially comprise air, inert gases (e.g., argon), a vacuum, and/or dielectric materials such as silicon dioxide, fluorinated silicate glass (FSG), SILK (a product of Dow Chemical), or Black Diamond (a product of Applied Materials). 
     The interface layer  230  may also be or at least partially comprise a flag, paddle, central support member or other portion of a lead frame employed to interconnect power and/or data contacts of the device  220  with surrounding circuitry. However, such lead frame portion may alternatively be positioned elsewhere besides interposing the energy cell  210  and the device  220 . For example, the energy cell  210  may interpose and possibly contact both the lead frame and the device  220 , or the device  220  may interpose and possibly contact both the lead frame and the energy cell  210 . In such embodiments, the contact between the energy cell  210 , the device  220  and/or the lead frame may be through one or more intermediary layers, such as may be employed to improve adhesion, electrical conductivity and/or electrical isolation between the “contacting” components. 
     The apparatus  200 A may also include a manufacturing process handling or transport substrate or other structure coupled to the energy cell  210  (hereafter referred to as the handle  240 ), such as in the illustrated example. Among other possible purposes, the handle  240  may assist in the handling of the apparatus  200 A during and/or after manufacturing. However, the apparatus  200 A may not include the handle  240 . Nonetheless, when the handle  240  is employed, it may be removed and possibly discarded during or after manufacturing. When employed, the handle  240  may also be positioned relative to the other features of the apparatus  200 A in locations other than as shown in  FIG. 3A . For example, the handle  240  may be coupled to the device  220  rather than to the energy cell  210 . The handle  240  may also be employed during the manufacture and/or assembly of the feature to which it is coupled. For example, the handle  240  may be integral to or otherwise coupled to the energy cell  210  or the device  220  during the manufacture and/or assembly thereof. 
     The apparatus  200 A may also include a sacrificial or release layer  245  interposing the handle  240  and the remainder of the apparatus  200 A. The sacrificial layer  245  may comprise silicon dioxide, polysilicon, and/or other materials easily removable by a diluted hydrofluoric acid etch and/or other conventional or future-developed sacrificial layer removal processes. The sacrificial layer  245  may also or alternatively comprise an adhesive which may permanently or temporarily bond the handle  240  to the energy cell  210  or other portion of the apparatus  200 A. Clamps and/or other mechanical fasteners may be employed in addition to or in the alternative to the sacrificial layer  245 . 
     The apparatus  200 A may also include or be encapsulated in one or more insulating layers formed around a substantial portion of the apparatus  200 A, such as to protect the apparatus  200 A from potentially hazardous mechanical and environmental elements which may cause damage or destruction. Such encapsulating or insulating layer(s) may comprise polyphenolene sulfide and/or a variety of another non-conductive encapsulant materials 
     Referring to  FIG. 4A , illustrated is an exploded perspective view of at least a portion of an embodiment of an apparatus  300  according to aspects of the present disclosure. The portion of the apparatus  300  shown in  FIG. 4A  includes an energy cell  310  having an energy device  130  formed or otherwise positioned in a frame  120 , as well as electrodes  110 ,  140 . The energy cell  310  may be substantially similar to the apparatus  100  shown in  FIG. 1C  and/or the apparatus  100 B shown in  FIG. 2D . For the sake of clarity, a portion of the energy device  130  and the frame  120  have been removed and the electrodes  110 ,  140  are shown in a disassembled configuration. 
     The frame  120  may include an electrically conductive via or other conductive member  320  extending through the frame  120 . The perimeter of the electrode  140  may also include a scallop, recess, indentation, or otherwise defined profile  325  configured such that the electrode  140  does not electrically contact the conductive member  320  when the electrode  140  is coupled to the frame  120 , such as in the assembled configuration of the energy cell  310  shown in the perspective view in  FIG. 4B . 
     Referring to  FIG. 4C , illustrated is a sectional view of the apparatus  300  shown in  FIG. 4A  in which the energy cell  310  and a device  220  to be packaged with the energy cell  310  have been coupled via an interposing member  330 . The device  220  may be substantially similar to the device  220  discussed above with reference to  FIG. 3 . 
     The interposing member  330  may be or comprise at least a portion of a paddle, flag, and/or other portion of a lead frame. In one embodiment, such a lead frame may be a conventional or future-developed lead frame assembly having an industry-standard geometry and composition. The lead frame assembly may include a paddle, flag, or other central support member and a plurality of formable, flexible metal leads that extend radially around the periphery of the central support member to a plurality of “J” style leads or other end use, packaging style appropriate pin connectors. In one embodiment, the lead frame assembly may include 28 pairs of leads and connectors, such as the Olin Brass C194 distributed by A.J. Oster Company of Warwick, R.I. The central support member may also include a conductive coating on one or both major surfaces thereof to increase their electrical conductivity. Although not limited by the scope of the present disclosure, such a conductive coating may be or comprise a graphite based coating having a thickness of about 25 μm, such as Electrodag® EB-012 distributed by the Acheson Colloids Company of Port Huron, Mich. The conductive coating may be applied by lamination or conventional or future-developed thin-film deposition processes, and may be cured by exposure to heat or air, for example. 
     The energy cell  310  and the device  220  may each be coupled to the interposing member  330  via one or more adhesive layers  340 . The adhesive layers  340  may each comprise an electrically and/or thermally conductive elastic dry film and/or a silicone elastomer, possibly including a silver pigmentation. The energy cell  310  and the device  220  may also or alternatively be welded to the interposing member  330  by laser welding and/or other conventional processes. 
     The apparatus  300  may also include a plurality of wire bonds  350  or other type of conventional or future-developed interconnection media, such as those comprising carbon nanotubes or polyacetalynes. Each wire bond  350  couples a lead or other portion of the interposing member  330  to corresponding bond pads or other contacts formed on and/or in the device  220 . The wire bonds  350  may be employed for power supply voltages, regulated power conditioned and battery charging voltages, analog conditioning and sensing signals, micro-electromechanical sensing and activation signals, digital input/output signals, such as chip select, addressing or data signals, and/or other signals between the device  220  and circuitry connected to the interposing member  330 . 
     An additional wire bond  355  may couple one of the bond pads or other contacts formed on and/or in the device  220  to the conductive member  320 . The wire bond  355  may be substantially similar in composition, manufacture, and assembly to the wire bond  350 . The wire bond  355  may extend through an opening, gap, or other aperture  335  in the interposing member  330 , or may be routed around the perimeter of the interposing member  330 . The wire bonds  350 ,  355  may comprise gold and/or other conductive materials, and may be formed and assembled by conventional and/or future-developed processes. 
     Because the conductive member  320  contacts or is electrically connected to the electrode  110  of the energy device  310 , the device  220  may be connected to the electrode  110  via the wire bond  355 . The device  220  may also be connected to the electrode  140  of the energy device  310  by an additional wire bond or other similarly described  350  connection means discussed above. However, in the embodiment shown in  FIG. 4C , the device  220  is connected to the electrode  140  via the interposing member  330  and the adhesive layers  340 . For example, a power supply contact for the device  220  may be on a surface of the device  220  that is contacted by one of the adhesive layers  340  (e.g., the lower surface in the orientation shown in  FIG. 4C ), such that the adhesive layers  340  and the interposing member  330  collective connect the power supply contact of the device  220  to the electrode  140  of the energy device  310 , wherein the electrode  140  may be an anode of the energy device  310 , or may be connected to the anode of the energy device  310 . Consequently, the cathode of the energy device  310 , which may be the electrode  110 , or which may be connected to the electrode  110 , may be connected to a ground potential contact for the device  220  through the conductive member  320  and the wire bond  355 . 
     Aspects of the apparatus  300  are applicable and/or readily adaptable to embodiments employing energy cells other than the energy cell  310 , and also to embodiments employing devices other than the device  220  described herein. Some embodiments of the apparatus  300  may also include more than one energy cell, each of which may be substantially similar to or different than the energy cell  310 , and may also include more than one device, each of which may be substantially similar to or different than the device  220 . The apparatus  300  shown in  FIG. 4C  may also exclude one or both of the electrodes  110 ,  140 . For example, the interposing member  330  may be coupled directly to the topmost (relative to the orientation shown in  FIG. 4A ) or otherwise exposed layer of the energy device  130 , possibly through one of the adhesive layers  340  and/or other coupling means other than the electrode  140 . Similarly, the bottommost layer of the energy device  130  (relative to the orientation shown in  FIG. 4B ) may be connected to the conductive member  320  directly or by one or more elements, features, components, or members other than the electrode  110 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 5A , illustrated is a top view of at least a portion of an embodiment of the frame  120  discussed above and designated herein by the reference numeral  500 . The frame  500  is substantially similar in composition and manufacture to the frame  120  discussed above, and includes an opening  502  configured to receive an energy device stack, such as that comprising the energy device layers  130   a - c  described above. 
     The frame  500  also includes traces, metallization features, and/or other electrically conductive members herein referred to as conductive members  510  (the frame  120  described above may include similar conductive members  510 ). The electrically conductive members  510  may comprise aluminum, copper, gold, tungsten, and/or other conductive materials, and may be formed by selective deposition or bonding, brazing, blanket deposition following by one or more patterning processes, and/or other processes. In one embodiment, the electrically conductive members  510  may have a thickness ranging between about 50 μm and about 500 μm, although a variety of other thicknesses are also within the scope of the present disclosure. 
     The electrically conductive members  510  are illustrated as being recessed within the surfaces of the body  505  of the frame  500 , such that the upper or outer surfaces or profiles of the electrically conductive members  510  may be substantially planar or recessed within the body surface in which the conductive members  510  are formed. In such an embodiment, the electrically conductive members  510  may be formed by forming recesses in the frame body  505 , such as by etching, laser machining, and/or other processes, and subsequently filling the recesses with conductive material, possibly followed by one or more chemical-mechanical polishing or planarizing processes and/or other planarizing processes. In other embodiments, the electrically conductive members  510  may be only partially recessed within the surfaces of the frame body  505 , thereby at least partially protruding from the surfaces of the body  505 . In other embodiments, the surfaces of the body  505  may be substantially planar and the electrically conductive members  510  may merely be formed thereon. 
     The electrically conductive members  510  include a electrically conductive member  510 A which comprises one or more perimeter portions substantially surrounding the opening  502  or otherwise configured to contact an electrode component coupled to the frame  500  and/or an outermost energy device layer located in the opening  502  adjacent the electrically conductive member  510 A. The electrically conductive member  510 A also includes one or more extension portions  511 A extending between the perimeter portions thereof and a spanning conductive member  510 C shown more clearly in  FIG. 5B . 
     The electrically conductive members  510  also include a conductive member  510 B which comprises one or more perimeter portions substantially surrounding the opening  502  but electrically isolated from the electrically conductive member  510 A, such as by a gap  515  comprising air, inert gases, other dielectric materials, or a vacuum. The conductive member  510 B may substantially or at least partially conform to the electrically conductive member  510 A, although the conductive member  510 B may be offset radially outward from the conductive member  510 A. Ends  512  of the conductive member  510 B may terminate on opposing sides of the extension portion  511 A of the electrically conductive member  510 A. The conductive member  510 B may also include one or more extension portions  511 B extending between the perimeter portions thereof and an additional spanning conductive member  510 D shown more clearly in  FIG. 5D . The extension portions  511 A,  511 B of the electrically conductive members  510 A,  510 B may be located at opposite, possibly substantially parallel ends or sides of the frame  500 , as shown in  FIG. 5A , although in other embodiments the extension portions  511 A,  511 B of the electrically conductive members  510 A,  510 B may be located on adjacent, possibly perpendicular ends or sides of the frame  500 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 5B , illustrated is a left side view of the frame  500  shown in  FIG. 5A . The spanning conductive member  510 C includes one or more portions collectively or each individually spanning the thickness of the frame body  505 , thereby connecting the extension portion  511 A of the electrically conductive member  510 A and an additional conductive member  510 E shown more clearly in  FIG. 5D . 
     Referring to  FIG. 5C , illustrated is a right side view of the frame  500  shown in  FIG. 5A . The spanning conductive member  510 D includes one or more portions collectively or each individually spanning the thickness of the frame body  505 , thereby connecting the extension portion  511 B of the electrically conductive member  510 B and an additional conductive member  510 F shown more clearly in  FIG. 5D . 
     Referring to  FIG. 5D , illustrated is a bottom view of the frame  500  shown in  FIG. 5A . The electrically conductive members  510  include conductive member  510 F which comprises one or more perimeter portions substantially surrounding the opening  502  or otherwise configured to contact an electrode component coupled to the frame  500  and/or an outermost energy device layer located in the opening  502  adjacent the conductive member  510 F. The conductive member  510 F also includes one or more extension portions  511 F extending between the perimeter portions thereof and the spanning conductive member  510 D shown more clearly in  FIG. 5C . 
     The electrically conductive members  510  also include conductive member  510 E which comprises one or more perimeter portions substantially surrounding the opening  502  but electrically isolated from the conductive member  510 F, such as by a gap  517  comprising air, inert gases, other dielectric materials, or a vacuum. The conductive member  510 E may substantially or at least partially conform to the conductive member  510 F, although the conductive member  510 E may be offset radially outward from the conductive member  510 F. Ends  514  of the conductive member  510 E may terminate on opposing sides of the extension portion  511 F of the conductive member  510 F. The conductive member  510 E may also include one or more extension portions  511 E extending between the perimeter portions thereof and the spanning conductive member  510 C shown more clearly in  FIG. 5B . The extension portions  511 E,  511 F of the conductive members  510 E,  510 F may be located at opposite, possibly substantially parallel ends or sides of the frame  500 , as shown in  FIG. 5D , although in other embodiments the extension portions  511 E,  511 F of the conductive members  510 E,  510 F may be located on adjacent, possibly perpendicular ends or sides of the frame  500 . 
     Although not illustrated, the spanning conductive member  510 C may comprise more than one laterally offset member each spanning the left side of the frame body  505 , although such a configuration may also require that the electrically conductive members  510 A,  510 E each comprise more than one extension portion extending from their respective perimeter portions. Similarly, the spanning electrically conductive member  510 D may comprise more than one laterally offset member each spanning the right side of the frame body  505 , although such a configuration may also require that the electrically conductive members  510 B,  510 F each comprise more than one extension portion  511 B,  511 F extending from their respective perimeter portions. 
     As in the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 5A-5D , the patterns of the electrically conductive members  510 A,  510 F may be substantially identical or similar, or mirror images, depending upon the orientations employed for such a comparison. The patterns of the electrically conductive members  510 B,  510 E may be likewise similar, as well as the patterns of the conductive members  510 C,  510 D. 
     Referring to  FIG. 5E , illustrated is an exploded perspective view of at least a portion of an embodiment of an apparatus  550  according to aspects of the present disclosure. The apparatus  550  is one environment in which the frame  500  shown in  FIGS. 5A-5D  may be implemented. The portion of the apparatus  550  shown in  FIG. 5E  includes an energy cell  560  having an energy device (such as energy device  130  described above) formed or otherwise positioned in the frame  500 , as well as electrodes  110 ,  140  on opposing sides of the energy device. The energy cell  560  may be substantially similar to the apparatus  100  shown in  FIG. 1C  and/or the apparatus  100 B shown in  FIG. 2D . By example, the electrodes  110 ,  140  may be coupled or otherwise secured to the frame  500  by Nd:YAG laser soldering or active brazing. However, for the sake of clarity, the electrodes  110 ,  140  are shown in a disassembled configuration in  FIG. 5E . 
     The perimeter of the electrode  140  may substantially conform or otherwise correspond to the electrically conductive member  510 A shown in  FIG. 5A , or at least to the perimeter portions of the electrically conductive member  510 A (e.g., excluding the extension portion  511 A). Accordingly, upon assembly, the electrode  140  may electrically contact a substantial portion of the conductive member  510 A and/or an electrode layer or other outermost layer of the energy cell  560 . However, the perimeter of the electrode  140  may also be offset laterally inward relative to the electrically conductive member  510 B shown in  FIG. 5A , such that electrode  140  may be electrically isolated from the electrically conductive member  510 B. Otherwise, the electrode  140  may substantially be as described above. 
     Similarly, the perimeter of the electrode  110  may substantially conform or otherwise correspond to the electrically conductive member  510 F shown in  FIG. 5D , or at least to the perimeter portion of the electrically conductive member  510 F (e.g., excluding the extension portion  511 F). Accordingly, upon assembly, the electrode  110  may electrically contact a substantial portion of the electrically conductive member  510 F and/or an electrode layer or other outermost layer of the energy cell  560 . However, the perimeter of the electrode  110  may also be offset laterally inward relative to the electrically conductive member  510 E shown in  FIG. 5D , such that electrode  110  may be electrically isolated from the electrically conductive member  510 E. Otherwise, the electrode  110  may substantially be as described above. 
     Referring to  FIG. 5F , illustrated is an exploded perspective view of at least a portion of an embodiment of an apparatus  555  according to aspects of the present disclosure. The apparatus  555  is one environment in which the apparatus  550  shown in  FIG. 5E  may be implemented. The portion of the apparatus  555  shown in  FIG. 5F  includes an embodiment of the apparatus  550 , or another type of energy cell or energy storage device, as well as devices  570 ,  580  to be packaged on opposing sides of the apparatus  550 . However, for the sake of clarity, the devices  570 ,  580  are shown in a disassembled configuration in  FIG. 5F . The devices  570 ,  580  may be substantially similar to the devices  220  or other devices described above as being packaged with an energy device or cell. The apparatus  555  may also include only one of the devices  570 ,  580 . In such embodiments, one or more of the electrodes  110 ,  140  shown in  FIG. 5E , and/or one or more of the conductive members  510  shown in  FIGS. 5A-5D , may be omitted. For example, if the device  580  is coupled to one side of the apparatus  550 , but the apparatus  555  does not include a device coupled to the opposing side of the apparatus  550  (such as the device  570 ), the electrode  110  shown in  FIG. 5E  may be omitted. 
     Referring to  FIG. 5G , illustrated is a bottom view of at least a portion of one embodiment of either of the devices  570  and  580  (designated in  FIG. 5G  as “570/580”) that can be attached to either of the electrode elements  110  and  140  shown in  FIG. 5F . On the outside perimeter of the device  570 / 580  (e.g., the outside perimeter of the device die), I/O contacts  571  may, for example, be constructed utilizing flip-chip evaporated Under Bump Metallization (UBM) and conductive adhesive stencil techniques. Within the center of the device  570 / 580  (e.g., the center of the device die), a large area single contact point  572  or a plurality of multiple contact points can similarly be formed utilizing similar techniques. For assembly of the device  570 / 580  to the assembled power source (e.g., apparatus  550  shown in  FIG. 5E ), the device  570 / 580  is flipped on top of the cell assembly  550  such that the I/O contacts  571  align with the metallized and electrically conductive member  510 B or  510 E. Contact for the large area contact points within the center of the die can be accomplished anywhere on the electrode element  110  or  140 . A complimentary construction technique can be utilized for assembly of a second device  570 / 580  where its associated I/O contacts align with and contact the corresponding conductive member  510 B or  510 E and its associated center contact  572  aligns with and contacts the corresponding electrode element  110  or  140 . By way of example, each of the three assembled devices, now consisting of an energy storage cell  550  layered between two devices  570 / 580 , may be temporarily held together using an assembly tape such as Kapton® (I.E. DuPont) until an interposing, conductive adhesive can be cured, such as at about 150° C. for fifteen to thirty minutes. 
     Aspects of the apparatus  500 ,  550 ,  555  are applicable and/or readily adaptable to embodiments employing energy cells other than those shown in  FIGS. 5A-5G , and also to embodiments employing devices other than the devices shown in  FIGS. 5A-5G  or otherwise described herein. Embodiments of the apparatus  500 ,  550 ,  555  may also include more than one energy cell, each of which may be substantially similar to or different than those shown and described herein, and may also include more than one device, each of which may be substantially similar to or different than the devices shown and described herein. 
     Referring to  FIG. 5H , illustrated is a perspective view of the apparatus  555  shown in  FIG. 5F  after the devices  570 / 580  have been assembled to opposing surfaces of the energy storage cell  550 . In the illustrated example, the footprint of each of the devices  570 / 580  substantially conforms to the footprint of the energy storage cell  550 , both in regard to shape and surface area. However, one or both of the devices  570 / 580  may alternatively have a footprint that differs in shape and/or surface area relative to the footprint of the cell  550 , whether or larger or smaller. 
     Referring to  FIG. 6A , illustrated is a schematic view of at least a portion of an embodiment of an apparatus  600 A according to aspects of the present disclosure. The apparatus  600 A includes a device  610  packaged with and powered at least partially by an energy storage device  620  according to aspects of the present disclosure. The device  610  may be substantially similar to the device  220  described above, other devices described herein, and/or other devices within the scope of the present disclosure. The device  220  may also include more than one discrete device, die, or chip, or may itself be or comprise an apparatus substantially similar to the apparatus  600 A. 
     The energy storage device  620  may be substantially similar to one or more of the energy devices or cells described above. However, rather than merely generating the energy provided to at least partially power the device  610 , the energy storage device  620  is also electrically coupled to an energy source  630 , such as by wires or other electrically conductive members  640 , which may be configured to recharge the energy storage device  620 . 
     The energy source  630  may be or include a nuclear battery, such as described in “The Daintiest Dynamos,” IEEE Spectrum, September 2004, Amit Lal and James Blachard, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. The energy source  630  may additionally or alternatively be or include a MEMS based thin-film fuel cell, such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,638,654 to Jankowski, et al., the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. The energy source  630  may additionally or alternatively be or include RF energy collectors similar to RFID Tag and Electronic Product Code (EPC) implementations, such as described in Technology Review, July/August 2004, pp 74, 75, Erika Joniets, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. The energy source  630  may additionally or alternatively be or include a single or plural configuration of photovoltaic cells, such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,613,598 to Middelman, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,580,026 to Koyanagi, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,538,194 to Koyanagi, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,479,745 to Yamanaka, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,469,243 to Yamanaka, et al., or U.S. Pat. No. 6,278,056 to Sugihara, et al. These patents, in their entirety, are hereby incorporated by reference herein. The energy source  630  may additionally or alternatively be or include one or more of: a radioactive generator, a ferro-electric or magnetic generator, a lead zirconate titanate (PZT) electricity generating ceramic device, or a MEMs based petro-chemical internal combustion engine with an electric generator, an elastomeric generator, or a piezoelectric generator, or other acoustic or mechanical vibration piezoelectric energy harvesters, among others. 
     Referring to  FIG. 6B , illustrated is a schematic view of at least a portion of another embodiment of the apparatus  600 A shown in  FIG. 6A , herein designated by the reference numeral  600 B. The apparatus  600 B may be substantially similar to the apparatus  600 A, except that the energy source  630  may be directly coupled to the energy storage device  620  in the apparatus  600 B. For example, the energy source  630  may be coupled to the energy storage device  620  by one or more layers which may be substantially similar to the interface layer  230  and/or the adhesive layers  340  described above. Consequently, the energy source  630  may be adjacent to or otherwise centrally located with the energy storage device  620 , whereas the energy source  630  may be located remote from the energy storage device  620  in the apparatus  600 A shown in  FIG. 6A . 
     Having described the construction techniques utilized to integrate a micro-sale, nano-scale, or other miniature Energy Storage Device (ESD) with a semiconductor package, the following paragraphs focus on potential applications or implementations for such an integrated device (e.g., in the marketplace). Because of the broad base of applications or implementations for integrated devices as described herein, the overall applicable, product-driven markets where such devices may be applicable could be, but are in no way construed or interpreted to be limited to, market segments typically described as “automotive,” “military,” “industrial,” “telecommunications,” “medical” and “consumer.” For each of these market segments, the following paragraphs are included as discussion by way of product examples in each market segment, suggested product solutions which may utilize an integrated circuit and ESD, or integrated circuit-ESD-energy generator combination of constructed components which may possess functional, useful and/or beneficial operational advantages. 
     Applications of an integrated ESD device according to aspects of the present disclosure and applicable to the automotive market segment include security keys, locks and ignition systems, automobile-body-mounted crash sensors, tire air pressure sensors, or consumable product status sensors and indicators, among others. One example is a device employed with a typical automotive air intake line, where a low cost air-pressure sensor which measures air pressure can be utilized to indicate the volume of airflow into the carburetor. A contaminated or failing air filter may yield a measurable increase in air intake pressure from a known airflow operating condition, which may be empirically measured if a sensor is physically located on an air intake path or manifold just past the air filter element. In such an implementation, a single integrated package containing a MEMS type of pressure sensor, an ESD rechargeable battery, and a MEMS based kinetic power source, all collocated and encapsulated or otherwise integrally packaged into an automotive-ergonomic compatible package, may be placed on an air inlet hose or manifold located in a position following the air filter but in front of the carburetor (or other air inlet to the engine). An autonomous, self-powered pressure sensor of this type may give indication to the vehicle owner/operator of a filter-replacement requirement, such as via illumination of a light emitting diode (LED). 
     Military applications for an integrated ESD type of device according to aspects of the present disclosure include countermeasure devices such as infrared chafes, smart munitions on small caliber munitions rounds, anti-fuse based solid state detonators, or consumable chemical or biological agent detectors. For example, a contemporary military aircraft countermeasure to an adversarial firing of a heat-seeking or infrared-guided missile is the use of infrared (IR) generating chafes. The chafe is a small device typically containing a hydrocarbon-based fuel that, when ignited, burns hot enough to give off an emission of thermal infrared energy. This infrared energy signature is intended to be of sufficient luminescent quantity, and of sufficient time duration, to duplicate the energy signature of the aircraft jet engine. The diversionary and decoy properties of the deployed chafes cause the heat-seeking guidance system of the adversarial missile to become confused as to which glowing object is the targeted aircraft engine. As the aircraft maneuvers away from the deployed chafes, the infrared signature of the chafes becomes more predominate than the IR emission signature of the targeted jet engine, and the missile subsequently follows the new, brighter signature of the decoy chafes. This diversionary and decoy mechanism of substituting the infrared signature of chafes for the infrared signature of targeted jet engines is an effective countermeasure in a threatening and potentially lethal situation where both the aircraft and its pilot avoid the catastrophe of being destroyed by an adversary&#39;s guided missile. 
     The chafes are typically a fueled, pyrotechnic device. An ESD-based intelligent chafe, constructed according to aspects of the present disclosure, may be produced in virtually any favorable airborne geometry. As chafes typically have flat- and rounded-disk form factors, each chafe disk may be configured to contain an ESD type of device which allows for a delayed-fuse activation of a high-intensity, infrared light emitting source. According to aspects of the present disclosure, each chafe disk may contain one, two or more conductive elements that, when aligned into a launching cylinder, are utilized to electronically activate the infrared emitting source on the disk. When stacked in numbers and aligned in a firing cylinder, the chafes can be launched or propelled from the cylinder when activated. Potential benefits of utilizing this method of countermeasure include the geometric coverage area of the infrared signature left behind the targeted aircraft by the launched chafes, their programmable timing for activation delay from launch, their illumination duration, and their intensity of the infrared emission in each chafe. 
     Industrial applications of ESD based devices according to aspects of the present disclosure include a variety of autonomous transducers and sensors, as well as manufacturing tracking, shipping, and product authenticity implementations. For example, one implementation may entail products which are manufactured utilizing highly-automated assembly processes, such as those processes which are substantially automated from beginning to end, including where an assembly process progresses with the insertion of various subassemblies into a manufacturing process carrier or tray. For purposes of discussion, the carrier or tray will be referred to hereafter as a “handler.” 
     Because of the fully- or substantially-automated nature of the manufacturing process, human intervention may be kept at a minimum. A variety of sensors located within the conveyor system or assembly station of an assembly process may be utilized as quality-feedback mechanisms, such as to ensure that each process step is concluded with the desired result. At each step of the assembly or other manufacturing process, the sensors may allow the product to be either accepted and forwarded to the next assembly stage, or to be rejected from the assembly process entirely. 
     The continued acceptance or rejection of an assembled product during a manufacturing process may be known as “yield.” Yield is a percentage calculation indicative of a ratio measure of the amount of product (e.g., production units) that are accepted through each process stage divided by the total number of units that started through the process stage. For example, the desired outcome may be to keep the automated process within sufficient quality parameters that the yield metric remains as high as possible. Because the automated manufacturing process may remove as much human intervention as possible, the handler may be created such that it may contain an intelligent measurement and communications device whereby the assembly performance results of each stage of the manufacturing process can be acquired and stored. 
     An integrally-packaged ESD device according to aspects of the present disclosure and configured for this exemplary industrial implementation may be molded or mounted into the handler. The device may contain a single or series of integrated circuits comprising, for example, a micro- and/or nano-technology-based, articulated MEMS- or NEMS-based gyroscope to detect assembly orientation. The device may contain a multi-function microcontroller interface that is capable of analog sensing, such as may be configured to sense temperature. The microcontroller may additionally be configured to perform conversion of the analog sensing signal into digital data, and the microcontroller or other portion of the device may also include memory for the storage of the digital data. 
     For example, during the assembly process, the handler may hold the assembly for a spray deposition process in such a way that robotic orientation of the device must be measured within six degrees of freedom, for specific amounts of time, and at specific spray deposition temperatures. Following the spray deposition process, a high-temperature curing process may involve similar actuation of the handler in six degrees of freedom and with specific amounts of time at specific curing temperatures. Upon entry to this particular manufacturing stage, the integrated circuit of the integrated ESD device package according to aspects of the present disclosure may be activated through the use of a magnetic Hall Effect transistor, for example. Upon activation, the microcontroller may begin to sense signals from the MEMS gyroscope and/or the temperature sensor and, possibly with each measurement cycle, store the results of the measurement within a static random access memory of the microcontroller or other portion of the integrated ESD device. 
     With the microcontroller now active, the handler may proceeds through the spray deposition stage followed by the high-temperature curing stage. In each stage, data indicative of the condition of the handler orientation and temperature may be collected and/or stored in the integrated ESD device of the present disclosure. Upon completion of the high-temperature curing stage, the handler may be exposed to an RF field within sufficient proximity to allow for the initiation and transfer of data from the integrated ESD device of the handler to a process controller. 
     The process controller may read the digitally encoded data and, possibly through the use of the aforementioned Hall Effect switch, turn off or otherwise deactivate the integrated ESD device. With the data from the integrated ESD device contained in the handler, the process controller may examine the data contained in the process assembly handler and make a determination, possibly based on predetermined manufacturing process attributes, whether the assembly contained in the handler has successfully completed the manufacturing process stage. If the determination is positive, the handler and its associated assembly may be allowed to pass to the next assembly stage. If the determination is negative, the assembly may be rejected from the manufacturing process and discarded from the handler. Further, if the determination is negative, and once the assembly is removed from the handler, the handler may be allowed to return to the start and be reused for a new subassembly to pass through the same manufacturing stages. 
     Within the telecommunications market segment, applications or implementations for integrated ESD-device packages may exist in terrestrial, cellular, radio, copper-line-based, and/or high-speed optical networks or network components. For example, one such implementation may entail a single, highly-reliable, optical cross-connect switching apparatus. From a historical perspective, system components contained within an optical communications network typically employ conversion processes for translating between optical and electrical signals. Further, the efficiency of an optically-switched network device can be measured by the amount of time that is necessary to perform the conversion of optical signals of an inbound optical port to an inbound electrical data path, the switching of the inbound electrical data path to an outbound electrical data path, and the conversion of the outbound electrical data to an outbound optical port. In addition, this switching process must be highly reliable. Contemporary definitions of telecommunications reliability may include a standard of 99.9999% functional operation, among other examples. While many producers of optically-switched network equipment have developed products which meet the reliability standards as mentioned, switching performance may remain limited by the two-step electronic data path of optical signal conversion processes. 
     In considering the elimination of the electrical-optical conversion processes to optimize optical switching, an integrated ESD device package of the present disclosure, integrating an ESD and a micro- or nano-technology-based, cantilevered and articulated MEMS- or NEMS-actuated mirror device in a single package, may be utilized as a photonic switch to cross-connect inbound optical data to an outbound optical port while minimizing the attenuation loss of the interface between the photonic interconnect. Further, to sustain the high-reliability operating performance standard of 99.9999%, such an integrated ESD device package may be utilized to sustain the actuated mirror assembly&#39;s position of reflection between the inbound and outbound optical ports during periods of fluctuating electrical brown-out or loss of power. The integrated ESD device package may additionally or alternatively be configured to power one or more on-board optical amplifiers employed to minimize the photonic attenuation. As photonic switching elements are typically deployed in an N element by M element matrix format, the integrated ESD device package of the present disclosure may become more attractive for the incorporation of redundant energy in larger switching matrix sizes. 
     The medical market segment provides the opportunity for autonomously operating micro- and nano-technology derived MEMS- and NEMS-fabricated devices in applications of organ and muscle stimulators, bone and tissue growth stimulators, hormonal or enzyme level detectors, drug dispensers, neurological activity sensors, viral and bacteriological detectors, and automatic genetic or chemical assays, among others. One product example utilizing aspects of the present disclosure may be achieved for a disposable temperature thermometer. Utilizing an integrated ESD-device package of the present disclosure, integrating a temperature sensor located on a surface of the ESD frame with and a microcontroller and low-cost, flexible, organic display system located on an opposite surface of the ESD frame, a highly-accurate digital thermometer may be enclosed in low-cost, ABS-type injection molded or polyester film formed plastic which can be attached to a patient&#39;s skin. 
     Any number of possible activation methods may be employed to begin the measurement operation, including mechanical, resistance, capacitive, piezoelectric, and/or pressure switching, or a combination thereof. Upon activation, the microcontroller may begin the measurement of the temperature induced by an integrated or external thermal sensor and subsequently display the results in any of a variety of formats based on the design of the display mechanism. The display mechanism may include a series of individually colored organic light emitting diodes (LEDs) and/or other LEDs, a plasticized, color, thin-film display for a bar type display, or a thin-film transistor digital display of colored numerals which display legible digits, among other display types. Once the measurement cycle is completed, the thermometer can be removed from the patient&#39;s skin and possibly discarded. 
     Applications or implementations for integrated ESD-device packaging aspects of the present disclosure regarding products for consumer markets include sporting goods, gaming or casino tokens, jewelry, educational assistance and personal productivity tools. One exemplary implementation is a “mood” ring. While a mood ring cannot reflect an individual&#39;s mood with any real scientific accuracy, it can indicate an individual&#39;s involuntary physical reaction to an emotional state. The stone in a mood ring is typically a clear glass stone sitting on top of a thin sheet of liquid crystals. Contemporary nano-technology and/or organically-derived liquid crystal molecules can be very sensitive, changing orientation position or twist according to changes in temperature. This change in molecular structure affects the wavelengths of light that are absorbed or reflected by the liquid crystals, resulting in an apparent change in the color of the stone. The typical colors of the mood ring vary, by coolest to warmest temperature, from dark blue, blue, blue-green, green, amber, grey, and black, for example. 
     Relative to aspects of the integrated EDS-device packaging described herein, a mood ring can be configured such that one surface of the ESD frame contains a kinetic energy harvester that is utilized to convert motion of hand or finger movements into electric energy. An opposing surface of the ESD frame may contain one or more low-power or other LEDs for illumination with a laminated, liquid crystal display that is color-sensitive to heat and/or electrical stimulus. The ESD package may be positioned inside the body of the ring band, and a transparent, artificial gem store may be placed on the top of the ring band opening. As the ring conducts heat and transforms motion of the wearer to electricity, the liquid crystal display may change colors depending on the finger temperature and electrical energy received from the kinetic energy harvester contained in the ESD-device package positioned beneath the transparent stone. 
     For example, the color green, which signifies “average” on a mood ring color-scale, may be calibrated to the average person&#39;s normal finger surface temperature, such as about 82° F. (28° C.). By amplifying the increased or decreased thermal effects and/or by utilizing the transformed kinetic energy stored as electricity in the ESD, the illuminated liquid crystals may become visibly more distinguishable as the thermal effect changes their color. 
     Other implementations or applications within the scope of the present disclosure, whether within the above-described market segments or otherwise, may utilize an integrated battery-device package that may not be substantially planar, as in the examples depicted in the Figures discussed above. In contrast, the integrated package may be substantially spherical or otherwise non-planar. One such example includes an ESD having at least one substantially spherical surface mated with a substantially spherical semiconductor device, such as those developed by Ball Semiconductor, Incorporated. Spherical geometry of the ESD and device integrated therewith may allow one or more circuits to be located on a spherical semiconductor or other integrated circuit device substrate and be routed or wound around an appropriate portion of the spherical or otherwise non-planar surface, such as may be utilized to create a property of inductance. The added semiconducting material feature dimension of height may allow greater inductance values compared to those achievable on substantially planar chip surfaces. Additionally, such windings can be utilized as an antenna, such as to provide or support wireless communication between sensors implanted in the body and external, peripheral devices, for example. Such configurations may provide sensors with true, three-dimensional data acquisition capabilities. Moreover, sensors placed on the spherical surface may be configured to perform multidirectional sensing, and may be capable of generating data that is more comprehensive than conventional sensors. 
     Additionally, embodiments in which the integrated ESD-device package is configured to be implanted into a living human or other animal may eliminate the wires, cables, and tubes that conventionally encumber a patient. For example, the integrated ESD-device package may be configured as a self-powered sensor that, for example, may be swallowed by a patient to monitor vital signs internally, possibly with three-dimensional sensing capability. Such implementations of the integrated ESD-device package aspects of the present disclosure may also be utilized, for example, in operating rooms to track surgical instruments and sponges embedded with or coupled to embodiments of the integrated ESD-device package, or as embedded in surgical instruments to provide limited or single-use corrective processes which may aid in the correction of a patient&#39;s medical or surgical condition. 
     For example, when a patient is subjected to major surgery, surgeons or other medical professionals are required to conduct a “sponge count” before opening and before closing the patient, thereby ensuring that none of the surgical sponges or other surgical equipment is inadvertently left inside the patient. The count is typically performed by hand and, in the case of a miscount, x-rays are required to locate the missing sponge or other surgical implement. In contrast, an electronically-tagged instrument incorporating an integrated ESD-device package according to aspects of the present disclosure may be located with more simpler, potentially hand-held scanners, including those operable via radio-frequency or other wireless protocols that pose significantly reduced health-risks to the patient and surgical team compared to the use of x-ray apparatus. 
     Another example is a limited use, potentially specialized, spherical scalpel which may be configured in conjunction with an integrally packaged or otherwise associated ESD. Such a scalpel may be utilized to cauterize arteries and aid in the elimination of bleeding, among other potential uses and benefits. Additional implementations utilizing the spherical configuration described above include sensor-tipped catheters or guide wires, wireless electrodes, implantable neuro-stimulation devices, and a proprietary chromatography technique. Applications for micro- and nano-technology derived and/or other MEMS- and NEMS-based sensing elements may also include implant markers, sensor-tipped catheters, and swallowable vital sign sensors. 
     In addition to reexamining the optimal shape of sensing devices, dramatic reduction in sensor size is making new applications possible. Integrated Sensing Systems, Inc. (Ann Arbor, Mich.) is developing a pressure sensor that is only 0.25 mm wide, which is small enough to fit inside the eye of a needle, as well as inside most catheters. A single sensor may be used to measure the internal pressure of organs or wounds. With a pair of the devices, a pressure drop across an arterial obstruction may also be measured. A sensor array may also be utilized to characterize flow across long arterial or intestinal sections. The micro-scale sensor may provide a pressure range between about 0 and about 1200 torr, with a resolution of less than about 0.3 torr. 
     Referring to  FIG. 7 , illustrated is a block diagram of at least a portion of an embodiment of apparatus  700  according to aspects of the present disclosure. The apparatus  700  may be a wireless device configured to be permanently or temporarily implanted or attached to a living human, bovine, equine, caprine, porcine, ovine, canine, feline, avian, or other animal. The apparatus  700  may also be a wireless device configured to be permanently or temporarily implanted or attached to an animal carcass, such as in a meat-processing facility. 
     The apparatus  700  may be configured as a wireless tracking device, such as to track the movement of a living animal, including in real-time. The apparatus  700  may also or alternatively be configured as a wireless device for sensing a characteristic of the animal or environment in which the apparatus  700  is deployed. The apparatus  700  may also be configured to transmit information pertaining to the sensed characteristic, or to transmit information pertaining to the characteristic as sensed by another device or apparatus in communication with the apparatus  700 . 
     For example, the apparatus  700  may be configured to be utilized as a device for transmitting heart waveform signals as part of an electrocardiogram test procedure (ECG), or as a sensor on an aircraft wing which wirelessly communicates with a peripheral base unit. However, the myriad implementations, applications and configurations of the apparatus  700  within the scope of the present disclosure are not limited to these exemplary embodiments or functions. 
     The apparatus  700  includes one or more antenna  710 , an integrated circuit (IC) chip or device  720 , and an energy supply or energy source  730 . The antenna  710 , IC chip  720  and energy supply  730  are enclosed within a packaging material  740 . Each of the antenna  710 , IC chip  720  and energy supply  730  are electrically coupled to at least one of the other components, as indicated by the dashed arrows in  FIG. 7 , although one or more of the components may not be coupled to each of the other components, contrary to the example shown in  FIG. 7 . Such electrical coupling may be via one or more traces, wire bonds, contacting contact pads, electrically conductive adhesive, solder, stud bumps, and/or other means. 
     The energy supply  730  may be collocated with the IC chip  720  within the packaging material. For example, the energy supply  730  and the IC chip  720  may be arranged substantially side-by-side, such as the energy device  130  and each of the devices  570 ,  580  shown in  FIG. 5H . A surface of the energy supply  730  may be in substantial contact with a surface of the IC chip  720 , whether directly or via a thin layer employed, for example, to improve adhesion and/or electrical characteristics of the two components relative to each other. However, the collocation of the two components does not necessarily require or imply that the footprints of the components are either substantially similar or aligned (e.g., rotation or “clocking” relative to each other). In addition, the antenna  710  may be similarly collocated with one or both of the energy supply  730  and the IC chip  720 . 
     The IC chip  720  and the energy supply  730 , and possibly the antenna  710 , are collectively formed, fabricated, assembled, bound, co-joined, and/or otherwise oriented in such collocated arrangement prior to being encapsulated within the packaging material  740 . In contrast, conventional packaging processing can entail an initial packaging process to encapsulate the IC chip  720 , such as after bonding the IC chip  720  to a lead frame, and an additional packaging process to encapsulate the packaged IC chip  720  with an energy supply  730 . This conventional packaging method can be disadvantageous, such as where the additional packaging process excessively adds bulk or height to the finished product, or where the additional packaging process presents an environmental risk to the previously packaged IC chip  720  (such as to exposure to high temperature, stress build-up, additional handling, and/or other factors). 
     The antenna  710  is configured as a means for transmission and/or receipt of wireless signals across the boundary between the outer surface of the packaging material  740  and the surrounding environment. For example, the antenna  710  may comprise a member having a rod-shaped, ring-shaped, helical and/or other geometry, and may comprise aluminum, copper, gold and/or other electrically conductive materials. The antenna  710  may transmit and/or receive signals wirelessly between sensors and/or actuators located within and/or externally to the device  700  and external peripherals. Such wireless communication may be via IEEE 802.15.1 (also known as Bluetooth), ultra-wide-band (UWB), IEEE 802.16 (also known as WiMAX), IEEE 802.11b (also known as WiFi), IEEE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11g, and/or other wireless communication protocols. 
     The antenna  710 , or an array thereof, may be physically secured within the apparatus  700 , such as to the integrated circuit  720  and/or the energy source  730 , whether directly or indirectly, by adhesive, bonding, brazing, clamps and/or other mechanical fasteners, and/or by other means. For example, the antenna  710  may be attached to the IC chip  720  by micro- or nano-technology-based deposition or polysilicon etch processing. The length, overall dimensions, or other dimensions of the antenna  710 , each antenna  710  where multiple are employed, or an array of antenna  710  where employed, may range between about 1 mm and about 3 mm, although other dimensions are also within the scope of the present disclosure. 
     The antenna  710  may include, or be considered to include, some degree of circuitry, such as to allow the wireless transmission or receipt of signals, and may include some aspects of wired and/or wireless networking. The signals transmitted via the antenna  710  may include data related to, for example, one or more characteristics of the environment in which the apparatus  700  is employed, such as may be sensed by a portion of the IC chip  720 . The signals transmitted via the antenna  710  may include data related to, for example, a status of the IC chip  720 , energy supply  730 , and/or other portion of the apparatus  700 . 
     The IC chip  720  may comprise a plurality of active and/or passive silicon- and/or other semiconductor-based devices, such as the devices  222  described above with respect to  FIG. 3 . The IC chip  720  may be substantially similar to the device  220  shown in  FIG. 4C , the devices  570 / 580  shown in  FIG. 5F , and/or the device  555  shown in  FIG. 5H . The IC chip  720  and may include circuitry configured to manipulate signals received from a sensor component and/or to be sent to an actuator component, whether such sensor and actuator components are located within the IC chip  720 , otherwise within the apparatus  700 , or external to the apparatus  700 . The integrated circuit  720  may also include circuitry configured to prepare a signal and oscillatory mechanism utilized to, for example, transmit and/or receive signals via the antenna  710 , such as via one or more of the wireless protocols described above. The integrated circuit  720  may also be secured to the antenna  710 , the energy storage device  730 , or both, such as via adhesive, bonding, brazing, clamps and/or other mechanical fasteners, and/or by other means. 
     The energy supply  730  may be or include a nuclear battery, a MEMS- or NEMS-based thin-film fuel cell, a single or plural configuration of photovoltaic cells, Ferro-electric or RF energy collectors which may be similar to RFID Tag and Electronic Product Code (EPC) implementations, acoustic or mechanical vibration piezoelectric energy harvesters, and/or others, including those described above with respect to the energy device  630  shown in  FIGS. 6A and 6B . The energy supply  730  may substantially include an energy storage device as described herein, or may additionally include an energy harvesting and/or generation device. Moreover, as with the energy cell described above with respect to  FIGS. 1A-1C . The energy supply  730  may be directly or indirectly coupled to the IC chip  720  and/or the antenna  710 . 
     As mentioned above, the antenna  710  (or array thereof), the IC chip  720  and the energy supply  730  may be substantially or entirely encapsulated or otherwise enclosed within the packaging material  740 . The packaging material  740  may include a ceramic, plastic, metallic or otherwise protective and at least partially enclosing substance, such as may be intended to yield its internal components as a single, integrated package. For example, the packaging material  740  may have a composition that is substantially similar to that described above with reference to the apparatus  300  shown in  FIG. 4C . 
     The packaging material  740  may be substantially or essentially sealed, or may substantially or essentially seal the collocated and other components of the apparatus  700 , such as to prevent access by an end-user to the sealed components of the apparatus  700 . The packaging material  740  may also be configured or selected to have a predetermined or otherwise appropriate environmental permeability, such as to effectively allow the collocated energy supply  730 , IC chip  720  and/or antenna  710  to perform the desired sensory, computational, and/or communications functions. For example, the packaging material  740  may form a protective enclosure having an internal cavity which may substantially conform to an outer profile of the collocated antenna  710 , energy supply  730  and IC chip  720 , collectively, and may have environmentally permeable transmission properties selected or configured to permit the ingress and/or egress of electromotive and/or other environmental material characteristic properties. 
     Referring to  FIG. 8A , illustrated is a block diagram of at least a portion of an embodiment of the apparatus  700  shown in  FIG. 7 , herein designated by the reference numeral  800   a . The apparatus  800   a  is substantially similar to the apparatus  700  shown in  FIG. 7  except as described below. The antenna  710 , the IC chip  720  and the energy supply  730  of the apparatus  700  are electrically coupled, but may not be physically coupled, despite being collocated. In contrast, the antenna  710 , the IC chip  720  and the energy supply  730  of the apparatus  800   a  are not only electrically coupled, but are also physically coupled in direct contact. However, the direct physical contact may be via an interposing material configured, for example, to enhance adhesion, electrical conductivity and/or electrical isolation. Moreover, the electrical coupling between the antenna  710 , the IC chip  720  and the energy supply  730  of the apparatus  800  may be via the direct physical coupling described above. 
     Referring to  FIG. 8B , illustrated is a block diagram of at least a portion of an embodiment of the apparatus  800   a  shown in  FIG. 8A , herein designated by the reference numeral  800   b . The apparatus  800   b  is substantially similar to the apparatus  800   a  except as described below. The antenna  710  and the IC chip  720  of the apparatus  800   a  are each electrically coupled and physically coupled to the energy supply  730  by direct physical contact. However, the antenna  710  of the apparatus  800   b  is not physically coupled to the energy supply  730  by direct physical contact. In contrast, the antenna  710  of the apparatus  800   b  is physically coupled to the IC chip  720  by direct physical contact, as “coupling by direct physical contact” is described above (a convention followed in the description below), and is electrically coupled to the energy supply  730  indirectly via the IC chip  720  and, possibly, one or more wire bonds, traces, and/or other conductive members. Nonetheless, the antenna  710 , the IC chip  720  and the energy supply  730  are each electrically coupled to the other two components, whether directly or indirectly, such as the electrical coupling of the antenna  710  and the energy supply  730  indicated in  FIG. 8B  by the dashed arrows. 
     In an implementation similar to the apparatus  800   b , the energy supply  730  may interpose and be physically and electrically coupled to the IC chip  720  and the antenna  710  by direct physical contact, in contrast to the IC chip  720  interposing and being physically and electrically coupled to the energy supply  730  and the antenna  710  by direct physical contact as shown in  FIG. 8B . 
     Referring to  FIG. 8C , illustrated is a block diagram of at least a portion of an embodiment of the apparatus  800   a  shown in  FIG. 8A , herein designated by the reference numeral  800   c . The apparatus  800   c  is substantially similar to the apparatus  800   a  except as described below. That is, the antenna  710  is directly coupled by physical contact to the IC chip  720 , but the antenna  710  and the IC chip  720  are each individually coupled directly to a separate energy supply  730  by direct physical contact. In a similar implementation, the separate energy supplies  730  are actually different portions of the same energy supply, such that the antenna  710  and the IC chip  720  are each directly coupled by physical contact to a corresponding portion of the energy supply  730 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 8D , illustrated is a block diagram of at least a portion of an embodiment of the apparatus  800   b  shown in  FIG. 8B , herein designated by the reference numeral  800   d . The apparatus  800   d  is substantially similar to the apparatus  800   b , except as provided below. That is, in the apparatus  800   d , the energy supply  830  physically interposes and directly contacts the IC chip  720  and the antenna  710 , in contrast to the IC chip  720  interposing and directly contacting the antenna  710  and the energy supply  730 , as in the apparatus  800   b . The antenna  710  and the IC chip  720  of the apparatus  800   d  are each independently coupled directly to opposing sides of the energy supply  730  by direct physical contact, but are not coupled together by direct physical contact. However, the apparatus  800   d  includes an electrical conduit  850 , such as an electrically conductive metallic substance, spanning between the antenna  710  and the IC chip  720  to provide electrical connection. All four components ( 710 ,  720 ,  730  and  850 ) are substantially or essential encapsulated or otherwise enclosed within the packaging material  740 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 8E , illustrated is a block diagram of at least a portion of an embodiment of the apparatus  800   c  shown in  FIG. 8C , herein designated by the reference numeral  800   e . The apparatus  800   e  is substantially similar to the apparatus  800   c  except as described below. For example, in the apparatus  800   e , the energy storage device  730  includes of two components  730   a  and  730   b , the antenna  710  is directly coupled to the first component  730   a  by direct physical contact, and the IC chip  720  is directly coupled to both components  730   a  and  730   b . Operational energy required by the antenna  710  may be provided by the energy supply component  730   a , whereas operational energy required by the IC chip  720  may be provided by either or both of the energy supply components  730   a  and  730   b , whether continuously or in tandem. For example, the energy usage requirements of the IC chip  720  may be substantially greater (in magnitude and/or duration) relative to the energy usage requirements of the antenna  710 . Alternatively, if the antenna  710  has higher energy usage requirements than the IC chip  720 , the position of these two components within the configuration of the apparatus  800   e  may be switched. However, in either case, the antenna  710  may be electrically coupled to the IC chip  820  indirectly by one or more conductive members, as indicated by the dashed arrow in  FIG. 8E . Additionally, the separate energy supply components  730   a  and  730   b  shown in  FIG. 8E  may actually be different portions of a single energy supply, such as may be segmented, sectored, dedicated or otherwise correspond to the different components  710 ,  720  of the apparatus  800   e.    
     Referring to  FIG. 9A , illustrated is a schematic view of at least a portion of an embodiment of a system  900  according to aspects of the present disclosure. The system  900  is one environment in which the apparatus  700 ,  800   a ,  800   b ,  800   c ,  800   d , and/or  800   e  described above, among others described herein or otherwise within the scope of the present disclosure, may be implemented. For example, the system  900  includes wireless devices  910  configured to transmit the location of animals  905  and/or other information to one or more of a string of positionally-fixed “fence-post” devices  920 , which may in turn communicate the same and/or additional information to a peripheral base station  930 , wherein each of the wireless devices  910  may be substantially similar to one or more of the apparatus  700 ,  800   a ,  800   b ,  800   c ,  800   d , and/or  800   e  described above, among others described herein or otherwise within the scope of the present disclosure. 
     Referring to  FIG. 9B , illustrated is a schematic view of at least a portion of an embodiment of the wireless device  910  shown in  FIG. 9A . The wireless device  910  may be attached, clipped, pinned or otherwise secured to the ear  905   a  or another part of the animal  905  in such a way that transmission of information pertaining to the location of the animal  905  (and the wireless device  910 ) to another entity is substantially indicative of such location. The scale of the wireless device  910  is such that it would not cause significant discomfort or harm to the animal  905 . 
     The wireless device  910  may include an energy supply  912  coupled directly (by physical contact) or indirectly between an antenna  911  and an IC chip  913  configured to perform or otherwise support the wireless communication with the peripheral units  920  and/or  930  shown in  FIG. 9A . The antenna  911 , energy supply  912 , and IC chip  913  may be substantially similar to corresponding components described above with reference to  FIGS. 7 and 8A-8E , among others. 
     Referring to  FIG. 9C , illustrated is a schematic view of at least a portion of an embodiment of the peripheral unit  920  shown in  FIG. 9A . The “fence-post” device  920  may be attached or otherwise bonded to a fence post  922  or other stationary object between which positional comparisons for the determination of proximity can be made with the wireless device  910 . The device  920  may also be configured for wireless and/or wired communications with the peripheral base unit  930  shown in  FIG. 9A . 
     The peripheral intermediary unit or fence-post device  920  may include an energy supply  922  coupled directly (by physical contact) or indirectly between an antenna  921  and an IC chip  923  configured to perform or otherwise support the wireless communication with the wireless devices  910 , other peripheral intermediary units  920 , and/or the peripheral base unit  930  shown in  FIG. 9A . The antenna  921 , energy supply  922 , and IC chip  923  may be substantially similar to corresponding components described above with reference to  FIGS. 7 and 8A-8E , among others. 
     Referring to  FIG. 9D , illustrated is a schematic view of at least a portion of an embodiment of the peripheral base unit  930  shown in  FIG. 9A . The peripheral base unit  930  may be attached or otherwise bonded to a house  901   a , such as to its rooftop. The peripheral base unit  930  is configured to send and receive transmissions with the fence-post devices  920  and/or the wireless devices  910 . 
     The peripheral base unit  930  may include an energy supply  932  coupled directly (by physical contact) or indirectly between an antenna  931  and an IC chip  933  configured to perform or otherwise support the wireless communication with the wireless devices  910  and/or the peripheral intermediary units  920  shown in  FIG. 9A , and/or an additional peripheral base unit  930 . The antenna  931 , energy supply  932 , and IC chip  933  may be substantially similar to corresponding components described above with reference to  FIGS. 7 and 8A-8E , among others. 
     Referring to  FIG. 9E , illustrated is a flow-chart diagram of at least a portion of an embodiment of the logic structure  950  of the IC chip  913  within the wireless device  910  shown in  FIGS. 9A and 9B . The structure  950  includes a predetermined time interval  954 , which may be about 5 seconds in duration, upon the expiration of which the wireless device  910  may be configured to determine whether it has received a signal from one of the stationary fence-post devices  920  shown in  FIGS. 9A and 9C . If it has not, as determined by decisional step  956 , then the wireless device  910  may transmit its location in a step  958  and subsequently return to the waiting interval  954 . 
     If, however, the wireless device  910  has received a signal from a fence-post device  920 , then the wireless device  910  examines the received signal to determine whether the received signal is a “minor,” “larger,” or unrecognized signal. If the received signal is a minor signal, as determined by a decisional step  960 , then the wireless device  910  delivers a “minor” signal to an actuator of the wireless device  910  in a step  962 , and steps  958  and  954  may then be subsequently performed. A “minor” signal may indicate that the animal  905  (and, hence, the wireless device  910 ) has moved to a location near or at a boundary of a predetermined area (e.g., a boundary of a grazing area). The “minor” signal may cause an actuator included in the wireless device  910  to emit an acoustic, electrical, vibration, aromatic or other signal which is reacted to by the animal  905 , whether unconsciously, subconsciously or consciously by moving away from the boundary. The actuator may be integral to the IC chip  913  and, hence, integrally packaged with the energy supply  912 , while in other embodiments at least a portion of the actuator may be separate from, distinct from, or otherwise external to the packaging material that substantially encloses the IC chip  913 , energy supply  912 , and antenna  911 . 
     If the received signal is a “larger” signal, as determined by a decisional step  964 , then the wireless device  910  delivers a “larger” signal to the actuator of the wireless device  910  in a step  966 , and steps  958  and  954  may then be subsequently performed. A “larger” signal may indicate that the animal  905  (and, hence, the wireless device  910 ) has moved to or past the predetermined area boundary. The “larger” signal may cause the actuator included in the wireless device  910  to emit a more significant acoustic, electrical, vibration, aromatic or other signal, which may be more immediately reacted to by the animal  905  relative to the reaction to the “minor” signal, whether such reaction is unconscious, subconscious or conscious. Consequently, the animal  905  may be encouraged to more quickly move away from the boundary. 
     If the received signal is neither a “minor” signal nor a “larger” signal, as determined by decisional steps  956  and  964 , collectively, then the wireless device  910  may be configured to transmit a malfunction alert to one or more of the fence-post devices  920  and/or the peripheral base unit  930  in a step  968 . Steps  958  and  954  may then be repeated. 
     Referring to  FIG. 9F , illustrated is a flow-chart diagram of at least a portion of an embodiment of logic structure  970  for the IC chip  923  within the stationary fence-post device  920  shown in  FIGS. 9A and 9C . A default state  972  may be configured to find a wireless device  910  by listening for location transmissions from the wireless device  910 . If no transmissions are received, as determined by a decisional step  974 , the default state  972  may be resumed. However, once one of the wireless devices  910  comes into range of the fence-post device  920 , as determined by decisional step  974 , the proximity of the two devices may be calculated by a step  976  such that at least one of various actions may be performed based on the proximity. 
     For example, if the proximity is less than about one meter (or other arbitrarily determined distance), as determined by a decisional step  978 , then a “minor” signal will be transmitted to the wireless device  910  in a subsequent step  980 . If the proximity is less than about 0.2 meters (or other arbitrarily determined distance, less than the distance examined by decisional step  978 ), as determined by a decisional step  982 , then a “larger” signal may be transmitted to the wireless device  910  in a subsequent step  984 . If the proximity is determined to be less than 0 meters by a decisional step  986  and/or the decisional steps  978  and  982 , collectively, such as if the animal  905  has strayed beyond the fence-line defined by the proximity calculated in step  976 , then a priority escape alert message may be generated by one or more of the fence post devices  920  in a subsequent step  988 , which may include successively transmitting the alert by the remaining fence post devices  920  back to the base station  930 . The priority escape message may, in turn, be interpreted by the base station  930  and be displayed on a base station console  940  in communication with the base station  930 , indicating to the operator that human intervention is required to herd the animal  905  back within the intended boundary. 
     Referring to  FIG. 9G , illustrated is at least a portion of an embodiment of logic structure  990  for an implementation regarding the case of when an animal  905  comes into proximity of a fence-post device  920  and crosses over the perimeter boundary. The wireless device  910  begins to communicate to the fence-post device  920  in a step  992  and, when an animal  905  comes into a predetermined proximity of the fence-post device  920 , as determined by a decisional step  994 , the calculation of the proximity of the animal  905  relative to the fence-post device  920  begins in a step  996  (else listening continues in step  992 ). As the fence-post device  920  calculates the proximity of the animal  905  via the wireless device  910 , the fence-post device  920  begins to issue “minor” signals, followed by “large” signals, as described above, to further deter the animal  905  as the animal gets the closer to the fence-post device  920 . 
     Once the fence-post device  920  perimeter boundary is crossed by the animal  905 , which may indicate that the animal  905  has escaped or is in danger of escaping, as determined by a decisional step  997 , the wireless device  910  of that animal  905  continues to issue “larger” jolts in accordance with the proximity calculations performed by the fence-post device  920 . As the animal  905  (and its wireless device  910 ) exit the range of the fence-post device  920  on the outside of the perimeter, proximity measurements and “larger” and “minor” jolt signals and escape alert status notifications continue to be issued from the fence-post device  920 , and may be similarly forwarded through adjacent fence-post devices  920  back to the peripheral base station  930  and finally to the operator&#39;s console  940 . For example, the operator&#39;s console  940  may indicate the animal escape status as well as the last-transmitted proximity data, which may be sent in a step  998 , as a notification that intervention is required in returning the animal  905  to within the designated safe zone. 
     Referring to  FIG. 10 , illustrated is a schematic view of at least a portion of an embodiment of a system  1000  according to aspects of the present disclosure. The system  1000  is one environment in which the apparatus  700 ,  800   a ,  800   b ,  800   c ,  800   d  and/or  800   e  described above may be implemented.  FIG. 10  illustrates the operation of one or more wireless devices  1010  which may each be configured to transmit heart wave-forms as part of an ECG. The wireless devices  1010  may each be substantially similar to one or more of the apparatus  700 ,  800   a ,  800   b ,  800   c ,  800   d  and/or  800   e  described above, among others within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the wireless devices  1010  may include an IC chip having at least a portion configured to sense or communicate with an associated sensing device to detect the heart waver-forms and/or related electrical signals. The wireless devices  1010  may also include an antenna, such that the detected signals and/or information related thereto may be transmitted to a peripheral base unit  1020 . The peripheral unit  1020  may be configured to receive the signals transmitted from the wireless devices  1010 , and possibly to perform various processing of the signals and/or display the signals and/or related information on an analog and/or digital display  1025 . The wireless devices  1010  may be implantable, such that they may be used repeatedly. Consequently, the packaging material enclosing the collocated components of the wireless devices  1010  may be surgically sterile. However, the wireless devices  1010  may also be disposable, one-time-use products, possibly having adhesive on one surface thereof to adhere the devices  1010  to the test subject for the duration of the ECG, such that the wireless devices  1010  may be subsequently removed with ease, and subsequently discarded. 
     Referring to  FIG. 11 , illustrated is a schematic view of at least a portion of an embodiment of a system  1100  according to aspects of the present disclosure. The system  1100  is one environment in which the apparatus  700 ,  800   a ,  800   b ,  800   c ,  800   d  and/or  800   e  described above may be implemented, among others within the scope of the present disclosure.  FIG. 11  illustrates the operation of wireless devices  1110  which may be configured to sense and/or transmit environmental data such as temperature, pressure, wind speed and direction, and/or humidity, and/or mechanical data such as that relating to the operation of one of various mechanical components within a modern aircraft. The devices  1110  may also be configured for and utilized as wireless actuators for various mechanical components such as elements of the propulsion device or wing aerodynamics. The advantages of such wireless devices used in such implementations may include the ability to decrease the quantity of wiring within the structure of the aircraft. Outdated wiring can fray and lead to arcing or sparking of electrical energy from one wire to another, which can in turn cause ignition of proximate flammable materials or a chain reaction with potentially catastrophic results. Wireless, self-powered sensors and transmitters, however, may eliminate the need for such wiring and can result in a significantly safer aircraft. 
     Referring to  FIG. 12 , illustrated is a schematic view of at least a portion of an embodiment of a system  1200  according to aspects of the present disclosure. The system  1200  is one environment in which the apparatus  700 ,  800   a ,  800   b ,  800   c ,  800   d  and/or  800   e  described above may be implemented, among others within the scope of the present disclosure.  FIG. 12 , similar to that of  FIG. 11 , illustrates an automotive embodiment in which wireless, self-powered sensors or actuators  1210  may be configured for and utilized as tire pressure sensors, speed detectors, road condition sensors, and/or actuators for one or more of various mechanical elements within a modern automotive manufacture. 
     The foregoing has outlined features of several embodiments so that those skilled in the art may better understand the aspects of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that they may readily use the present disclosure as a basis for designing or modifying other processes and structures for carrying out the same purposes and/or achieving the same advantages of the embodiments introduced herein. Those skilled in the art should also realize that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and that they may make various changes, substitutions and alterations herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.