Vibrating Beam Accelerometer Assembly for Wide Dynamic Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vibrating beam accelerometers (VBAs) are limited in their range of detectable acceleration values, requiring multiple VBAs or larger designs to cover different acceleration ranges, increasing complexity and profile.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a proof mass assembly with multiple proof mass elements, each configured for a different acceleration range, and using electrical connections on the sides of the proof mass elements to couple resonators to processing circuitry, reducing the overall profile and improving dampening and thermal insulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single VBA is used to detect acceleration, then the device complexity is reduced, but the range of detectable acceleration values is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The proof mass assembly is segmented into multiple proof mass elements (first, second, and third elements) with different configurations. Each element is designed to respond to different acceleration ranges, allowing a single VBA to detect acceleration across a broader spectrum without requiring multiple separate devices.
2Length of moving object
If electrical connections are made through the opposite surfaces of the proof mass element, then the electrical coupling is direct, but the overall profile and thermal insulation are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection approach transitions from a vertical arrangement (connections through opposite surfaces along the sensing axis) to a lateral arrangement (connections through sides of the proof mass element). This dimensional change reduces the profile length along the sensing axis while maintaining reliable electrical coupling between the resonators and processing circuitry.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple VBAs are used to cover different acceleration ranges, then the detectable acceleration range is expanded, but the overall size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple proof mass elements that would traditionally require separate VBA devices are merged into a single integrated proof mass assembly. This consolidation allows the system to detect acceleration across multiple ranges while occupying the space of only one VBA, significantly reducing the overall size and complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables accurate detection of acceleration across a broader range without the need for multiple VBAs, reducing complexity and size while enhancing thermal insulation and accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
Accelerometers function by detecting the displacement of a proof mass under inertial forces
Implementation Method 2
The acceleration may, for example, be determined by measuring the change in the frequencies of the resonators due to the change in load generated by the Newtonian force of a proof mass experiencing acceleration
Implementation Method 3
a plurality of dampening plates; at least two proof mass elements, wherein each proof mass element of the at least two proof mass elements is disposed between two dampening plates
Data Source
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AI summary
An accelerometer system including an accelerometer comprising a proof mass assembly the proof mass assembly comprising: a plurality of dampening plates; at least two proof mass elements, wherein each proof mass element of the at least two proof mass elements is disposed between two dampening plates of the plurality of dampening plates; and a plurality of resonators, wherein at least two resonators of the plurality of resonators is coupled to each proof mass element of the at least two proof mass elements.