Accelerometer with fastener isolation
US5203210A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 11, 1991 |
| Grant date | Apr 20, 1993 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 11, 2011 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01P15/132
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An accelerometer that includes a proof mass assembly comprising a paddle flexurally mounted to a support, a sensing circuit for detecting movement of the paddle, and a force rebalance system. The sensing circuit includes a capacitor plate positioned on a surface of the paddle. The proof mass assembly is clamped between upper and lower mounting pieces positioned on opposite sides of the proof mass assembly from one another. One or more fasteners extend between the upper and lower mounting pieces through the proof mass assembly. The support is shaped so as to form openings through which the fasteners pass, such that the support isolates each fastener from the paddle. This arrangement isolates the paddle from a source of contamination, provides for a more evenly distributed clamping force, and minimizes distortion of the mounting pieces. The fastener openings in the support may be shaped so as to limit movement of the paddle towards the flexures.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.