All categories
Featured selections
Trade Assurance
Buyer Central
Help Center
Get the app
Become a supplier

Mems 3 axis accelerometer

(3183 products available)

About mems 3 axis accelerometer

Types of MEMS 3 Axis Accelerometers

MEMS 3 axis accelerometer are usually available in electromagnetic and variable capacitance types. Here is a rundown of some common types:

Electromagnetic

This one uses a mass suspended with a spring. Whenever a force is applied, the mass moves causing a change in the distance between the electromagnetic plates. The greater the acceleration, the larger the mass distance separation resulting in a measurable change in capacitance.

Variable Capacitance

The variable capacitance sensor incorporates an accelerator mass connected to two capacitor plates. When acceleration occurs, the mass shifts that changes the overlap between the plates. This affects capacitance, which is measured and converted to acceleration.

Piezoelectric

The piezoelectric accelerometer contains a piezoelectric element like quartz that gets deformed whenever a mechanical stress is applied. This stress results from acceleration. The deformation generates an electrical charge proportional to the applied acceleration.

Strain Gauge

The strain gauge accelerometer consists of a mass attached to a spring with strain gauges fixed to the spring. When acceleration is applied, the spring bends. This bending causes the strain gauge to stretch or compress. Whenever the strain gauge stretches or compresses, a resistance change occurs, which is converted to an acceleration value.

Thermal

The thermal 3d accelerometer features a heat source at its center with temperature sensors added on its edges. The thermal one uses a heat element and detects temperature. When acceleration is applied, the heat element displaces, affecting the thermal flow. This causes the temperature at the peripheral sensors to vary. The variation is measured and converted to an acceleration value.

Industry Applications of MEMS 3 Axis Accelerometers

MEMS 3d accelerometer finds a place in all industries today. Here is a list of these industries:

Consumer Electronics

3D accelerometers have the main role of screen orientation adjusting, motion sensing, and fall detection in mobile phones, tablets, wearable devices, and gaming consoles.

Automotive Industry

In the automotive industry, these accelerometers are used to help with airbag deployment, stability control, crash detection, and keep track of vehicle motion. Also, they are used for vibration monitoring and analyzing the health of vehicle components.

Aerospace and Defense

In the aerospace and defense industries, the MEMS 3d accelerometers help track inertial navigation and guidance in absence of GPS, and vibration analysis of aircraft and spacecraft. Furthermore, these sensors aid in monitoring the structural integrity of the defense equipment and vehicle.

Health and Medical

In the health field, these 3 axis accelerometers are used in multiple medical devices to keep track of the patient’s physical activity, and fall detection and mobility monitoring. Moreover, they are used in biomedical implants to monitor vital functions and keep track of drug delivery systems.

Industrial Monitoring

The 3 axis accelerometers are widely used for vibration analysis, fault detection, and equipment condition monitoring. This makes them key components in predictive maintenance and industrial monitoring.

Robotics and Drones

These sensors are 3D accelerometers used for motion control, stability, and trajectory estimation in the area of robotics and drone.

Product Specifications and Features of MEMS 3 Axis Accelerometers

Key Specifications

  • Measurement Range

    The measurement range refers to the acceleration range a sensor can measure. For 3D accelerometers, the range is measured in g, where 1g = 9.81 m/s2, the typical value of earth acceleration.

  • Sensitivity

    Sensitivity refers to the capability of a 3D accelerometer to detect the slightest change in acceleration. Higher sensitivity is better for applications that need high precision measurement, such as image stabilization and navigation.

  • Bandwidth

    Bandwidth is the frequency range over which the 3D accelerometer can operate. Usually, this is from a few hertz to a couple of kilohertz for common 3D accelerometers. A 3d accelerometer with broad bandwidth is fitting for applications that require capture of fast motion.

  • Noise Density

    The noise density defines the amount of random noise present in an accelerometer's output per square root of bandwidth. Noise density is typically expressed in terms of micro g/Hz 1/2.

  • Scale Factor

    It is the ratio of the output to the input. In the case of an accelerometer, the scale factor is the sensitivity of the accelerometer. Normally, the scale factor is expressed in unit volts per g.

How to Install

  • Prepare the Installation Surface: The user should prepare the installation surface by cleaning and ensuring the surface is flat and free of the debris that can affect sensor performance. Moreover, the mounting surface should be rigid and stable and not contain excessive vibrations. The user should also ensure there is easy access to wiring and there is proper alignment.
  • Choose the Mounting Orientation: The user should mount the MEMS 3D accelerometer at the right angle depending on the required measurement. Normally, if the user is measuring linear acceleration in parallel with the x-axis, he should mount the sensor with the x-axis horizontal. If the user wants to measure angular velocity, he should mount the sensor aligned with the rotation axis.
  • Secure the Sensor: Secure the sensor to the mounting surface using screws, adhesive, or any other suitable method. Ensure the sensor is airtight to prevent unwanted vibration from affecting the reading.
  • Connect Wiring: Connect the wiring carefully, paying attention to the power and ground connection and signal output connection. Use color-coded wires to avoid mistakes. Moreover, the user should consult the manufacturer manual for wiring diagrams and reference.

Maintanance and Repair

  • Calibration: Regular calibration will ensure the sensor provides accurate readings. Users should follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to calibrate the sensor, frequently using a known reference.
  • Inspections: Users should do regular inspections of the sensor to identify wear, damage, or looseness. Also, they should check for wiring integrity, mounting stability, and signs of external damage.
  • Cleaning: Clean the sensor and the surrounding area to avoid dust and debris from interfering with the sensor performance. Users should avoid using harsh chemicals that might damage the sensor.
  • Environmental Controls: 3D accelerometer users should protect their devices from extreme environmental conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and exposure to strong vibrations. These elements could damage the sensor.
  • Firmware Update: The user should pay attention to firmware updates from the manufacturers. These updates help improve performance and fix bugs.

Memorable FAQs About MEMS 3 Axis Accelerometers

Q1. What distinguishes 3D MEMS accelerometers from conventional ones?

A1. 3D MEMS accelerometers measure acceleration along three orthogonal axes using micro-electro-mechanical systems technology, while conventional accelerometers measure acceleration along a single axis or two. The three-dimensional measurement capability makes them better for complex motion tracking.

Q2. What role do 3D MEMS accelerometers play in smartphones?

A2. In smartphones, 3D MEMS accelerometers are used for screen orientation, motion sensing, and shake detection for application activation and game control. They are components of augmented reality and virtual reality frameworks for motion tracking.

Q3. Which technologies are used in making mems 3D accelerometers?

A3. MEMS 3D accelerometers utilize electromechanical systems like variable capacitance, piezoelectric, electromagnetic, strain gauge, and thermal acceleration sensors to measure acceleration by detecting changes in motion, vibration, or tilt along three axes, which are then converted into an electrical signal.

Q4. Can 3D MEMS accelerometers work in extreme environments?

A4. 3D MEMS accelerometers are designed to withstand harsh conditions like temperature variations, humidity, and strong vibrations. Some models are specifically engineered for aerospace or industrial applications to guarantee enduring performance in adverse situations.

Q5. What is the significance of sensing and measuring in mems 3D accelerometers?

A5. Motion monitoring and measurement are crucial in MEMS 3D accelerometers because they allow the detection of dynamic changes in orientation, tilt, and vibration. These measurements are essential for applications such as stabilizing images, navigation, and motion capture, providing valuable data for various technologies.