Willy Sansen
Papers
2
Total Citations
63
H-Index
2
About
Willy Sansen is a pioneering figure in microsensor technology and analog integrated circuit design, whose work has fundamentally shaped modern MEMS and sensor systems. His research spans micro-accelerometers, capacitive sensing, and the piezojunction effect—a phenomenon he leveraged to create highly sensitive mechanical sensors. Among his most cited contributions is a 1988 paper on a uniaxial accelerometer that exploits the piezojunction effect in bipolar transistors, achieving virtually zero cross-sensitivity through innovative micromachining (47 citations). This work demonstrated how mechanical stress-induced changes in transistor characteristics could be harnessed for precise acceleration measurement. Sansen also advanced capacitive micro-accelerometers, as shown in his 2002 study on a highly symmetrical design that delivers over 80 dB dynamic range with less than 1% nonlinearity—all without electrical compensation (16 citations). His emphasis on mechanical symmetry set new standards for off-axis rejection and rotational insensitivity. Beyond these papers, Sansen is renowned for his seminal textbook *Analog Design Essentials* and his leadership in European microelectronics. With decades of impact, his research continues to inspire students and engineers in sensor design and analog circuits.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1A new uniaxial accelerometer in silicon based on the piezojunction effect47 citations · 1988
- 2