Recent advances in MEMS sensor technology-mechanical applications

Abstract

This is the second of a three-part series on micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) sensor technology. In the first part, a general introduction to MEMS sensing was given, including its underlying principles [1]. Biomedical MEMS sensors were also described by reviewing the principles of bio-sensing and describing a typical set of biologically inspired sensors. In this part, mechanical sensors for displacement, acceleration, impact, vibration, force and torque, and stress and strain are discussed. Various applications of these sensors include high-g measurement, study of golf swing dynamics, vibration control of space inflatable structures, force and torque measurement in micro-robots, bone stress monitoring, metrology, and characterization of nano-scale structures. Some related technologies of MEMS sensors are discussed including compensation for environmental effects, the Casimir effect, and harvesting of energy for self-powered sensors. Also, the subject of sensor selection is addressed. Part 3 of the series will present MEMS sensing in the thermo-fluid and electromagnetic domains.