accelerometer

A linear accelerometer. If the device is moving at constant velocity, the mass (1), supported on a bar by springs (2), remains static and an intermediate reading is registered on the potentiometer (3). On acceleration in the direction of the bar (4), i.e., along the accelerometer's sensitive axis, inertia causes the mass to lag behind, compressing the spring behind it (5) and stretching the spring ahead of it (6): a high voltage is registered. On deceleration, inertia causes the mass to compress the spring ahead of it and stretch that behind it, and thus a low voltage is registered on the potentiometer.

Developed by Steve Arms and his colleagues at MicroStrain, the G-LINK Wireless Accelerometer nodes monitored vibration and shock loads within the Liberty Bell during its relocation. Image credit: MiocroStrain, Inc. Caption text: NSF

An instrument that measures acceleration or the gravitational force capable of imparting acceleration. An accelerometer usually employs a concentrated mass that resists movement because of its inertia; acceleration is measured in terms of the displacement of this mass relative to its supporting frame or container.

The simplest example of an accelerometer is a plumb bob suspended from the object being accelerated. The angle of the plumb bob is proportional to the acceleration. A more sophisticated version, used in ballistic missiles, is an electromechanical device that translates the acceleration into electric current.

Modern accelerometers are typically micro-machined silicon sensors that are based on the capacitive, piezo-resistive or optical detection of the deflection a small mass experiences when the sensors is subjected to acceleration.

Related category

• INSTRUMENTATION

Also on this site:

Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living
Encyclopedia of History

BACK TO TOP