Method and apparatus for tool and tip design for nanomachining and measurement

A single-body structure used as a tool tip for making modifications and/or collecting measurements on a target object, said single-body structure comprising:

• a connecting end portion first end portion capable of being connected to a tool used to move said single-body structure relative to said target object;
• a non-connecting end portion opposite said connecting end portion;
• and
• a mid portion between said connecting and non-connecting end portions,
• wherein a central axis can be defined extending from said connecting end portion to said non-connecting end portion, and
• wherein said single-body structure has a maximum linear dimension of approximately 50 microns or less.

A tool piece used as a tool tip for making modifications and/or collecting measurements on a target object, said tool piece comprising;

• a proximate end;
• a distal end;
• and
• a shaped structure formed on said distal end, said shaped structure having a maximum linear dimension of approximately 50 microns or less,
• wherein said tool piece has a maximum linear dimension of approximately 200 microns or less.