Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS)
for Sensing Heading and Acceleration
Prof. David Bernstein
James Madison University
Computer Science Department
bernstdh@jmu.edu
Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS)
Defined:
Microscopic electro-mechanical devices with
moving parts
Typical Components:
A microprocessor
One or more microsensors
Size:
Components are typically between 1 and 100 micrometers
(i.e., 0.001 and 0.1 mm)
Devices are typically between 0.02 and 1.0 mm
Measuring the Heading
Objective:
Measure the magnetic field (e.g., to determine a heading)
Historical Technology:
A magnetic compass consists of a magnetized needle
that can rotate (e.g., on a pivot, floating in water). It
points north (after settling down) because the Earth's
magnetic fild exerts torque on the needle pulling the
"north" end toward the Earth's magnetic North pole
Other Modern Technology:
A gyrocompass consists of a spinning wheel that is
acted on by friction caused by the rotation of the Earth
and, hence, points toward true North
MEMS Magnetometers
A Common General Approach:
Measure the mechanical motion of a component that
results from the
Lorentz force
acting on a current-carrying
conductor (in the magnetic field)
Specifics:
Measure the movement of the component using an
optical sensor (e.g., a laser or LED)
Measure the strain using piezo-resistors (which
change their electrical resistivity when mechanical strain is
applied)
Measuring Acceleration
Objective:
Measure the proper acceleration (i.e., the
acceleration relative to freefall)
Historical Technology:
When a damped mass on a spring is accelerated the mass
is moved to the point that the spring can push the mass at the
same speed, hence, the compression of the spring measures
the acceleration
MEMS Accelerometers
A Common General Approach:
The mass is on a cantilever beam
The entire structure is in a gas filled
chamber (with the gas causing the damping)
Specifics:
Measure the motion using a piezoelectric material (that
generate an electric charge in response to applied mechanical stress)
Measure the strain using piezo-resistors (which
change their electrical resistivity when mechanical strain is
applied)