High-Sensitivity, Miniature Triaxial K-Beam® MEMS Capacitive Accelerometer Family for Vehicle Dynamics, Structural Analysis and NVH

Kistler, worldwide supplier of precision sensors, systems and instrumentation for the dynamic measurement of pressure, force, torque and acceleration, has announced the launch of the Type 8395A…, a miniature, cube-shaped, high-sensitivity, low-noise triaxial MEMS capacitive accelerometer series, incorporating Kistler's own K-Beam technology. The Type 8395A… is designed to simultaneously measure acceleration and low-frequency vibration in three mutually perpendicular axes (x, y and z) within a variety of automotive, aerospace, OEM, R&D and general laboratory test applications.

The Kistler Type 8395A… series is available in six different models, with measurement ranges from ±2 … ±200 g and a frequency response of 0 … 1000 Hz (5 %). The compact design provides a 0,85 inch (21,6 mm) cube footprint and incorporates a MEMS variable capacitance sensing element, consisting of a small inertial mass and flexure element sandwiched between two parallel plates. As the mass deflects under acceleration, the capacitance between the element and plates changes, which is converted to a proportional voltage by the internal analog signal conditioner. The output signal format of the Type 8395A… series is bipolar at 0 ±4 V and provides a high-sensitivity, low-noise signal, which is compatible with a wide variety of data acquisition or readout devices. The accel-erometer is shock rated to 6 000 g pk. Sensing elements and integral electronics are housed within a lightweight, welded titanium housing with a specially designed miniature circular 9-pin connector for a fully hermetic design.

The Kistler Type 8395A… triaxial capacitive MEMS accelerometer series offers excellent thermal stability and reliable performance over an operating temperature range of –65 … 250°F (–55 … 125 °C). It is powered by a single wide range supply between 6 … 50 VDC and has an internal voltage regulator. In the event that external temperature compensation is desired, a temperature output is provided, in addition to the output signals. Ground isolation is obtained by mounting the sensor using one of the off-ground accessories or by adhesively mounting the sensor to the test object using the side of the sensor with the integral hard anodized plate. Optional accessories for the Type 8395A… series include adhesive, magnetic or off-ground mounting bases; a triaxial mounting cube; and various breakout, extension and output cabling options.

As an instrument-grade accelerometer series, the Kistler Type 8395A… is suitable for use in a multitude of R&D and OEM applications where high-precision, low-frequency measurements and high-durability packaging are absolute requirements. Typical applications include aerospace ground vibration testing; flight test; structural dynamics and vibration assessments; automotive laboratory testing and vehicle ride assessments; structural integrity testing of bridges and other civil structures; seismic ground testing; and R&D applications, such as human motion studies, robotics and platform motion control systems, among others.

Kistler Group:

Kistler’s core competence is the development, production and use of sensors for measuring pressure, force, torque and acceleration. Kistler’s know-how and electronic systems can be used to prepare measuring signals for use in analyzing physical processes, controlling and optimizing industrial processes, improving product quality in manufacturing and improving performance in sports and rehabilitation.

Kistler offers a comprehensive range of sensors and systems for engine development, automotive engineering, plastics and metal processing, installation technology and biomechanics.

A worldwide sales presence in the form of 25 group companies and 30 distributors ensures customer proximity, application support on an individual level and short lead times.

With a staff of about 1 000, the Kistler Group is one of the world’s leading providers of dynamic measuring instrumentation. The Kistler Group achieved turnover of 166 million Swiss Francs in the 2009 financial year.