Mansoura University
Faculty of Engineering
Production Engineering & Mechanical Design
Department
Course Name: Production Laboratory
Instructor Name: Dr. Mohamed El-Keran
Subject: mems accelerometer
Student name: Ahmed Mohamed elshahat
Serial number : (7)
MEMS accelerometer is a micro-electromechanical system that is designed to
measure acceleration and tilt. It is a device that can detect changes in the
velocity, position, and orientation of an object. MEMS accelerometers are widely
used in various applications such as automotive, aerospace, consumer
electronics, and healthcare. This essay will discuss the working principle, types,
applications, and advantages of MEMS accelerometers.
Working principle:
MEMS accelerometers work on the principle of capacitance. The device consists
of a movable mass that is suspended by springs between two fixed electrodes.
When the device is subjected to acceleration, the movable mass moves, and the
capacitance between the two electrodes changes. The change in capacitance is
proportional to the acceleration, and this information is used to calculate the
acceleration.
Types:
There are two types of MEMS accelerometers: capacitive and piezoresistive.
Capacitive accelerometers work on the principle of capacitance, whereas
piezoresistive accelerometers work on the principle of resistance. Capacitive
accelerometers are more sensitive and accurate than piezoresistive
accelerometers.
Applications:
MEMS accelerometers are used in various applications such as:
1. Automotive: MEMS accelerometers are used in airbag systems to detect
a crash and deploy the airbag. They are also used in anti-lock braking
systems (ABS) to detect the speed and acceleration of the vehicle.
2. Aerospace: MEMS accelerometers are used in aircraft and spacecraft to
measure acceleration and orientation. They are also used in navigation
systems to determine the position of the aircraft or spacecraft.
3. Consumer electronics: MEMS accelerometers are used in smartphones,
tablets, and gaming consoles to detect orientation and motion. They
are also used in fitness trackers to measure the steps taken and calories
burned.
4. Healthcare: MEMS accelerometers are used in medical devices to
monitor the movement and activity of patients. They are also used in
prosthetic limbs to detect the movement of the limb.
Advantages:
The advantages of MEMS accelerometers are:
1. Small size: MEMS accelerometers are small in size, which makes them
ideal for use in portable devices.
2. Low power consumption: MEMS accelerometers consume less power,
which increases the battery life of portable devices.
3. High accuracy: MEMS accelerometers are highly accurate, which makes
them suitable for use in critical applications.
4. Low cost: MEMS accelerometers are relatively inexpensive compared to
other types of accelerometers.
Conclusion:
MEMS accelerometers are a vital component in various applications. They are
small in size, consume less power, and are highly accurate. MEMS
accelerometers are used in automotive, aerospace, consumer electronics, and
healthcare . The technology is continuously evolving, and we can expect to see
more advanced MEMS accelerometers in the future.