Toward a micro-scale acoustic direction-finding sensor with integrated electronic readout
Loading...
Authors
Downey, Richard H.
Subjects
MEMS
Microelectromechanical
Sensor
Acoustic
Sound
Directional
Direction-finding
Ormia ochracea.
Microelectromechanical
Sensor
Acoustic
Sound
Directional
Direction-finding
Ormia ochracea.
Advisors
Kurunasiri, Gamani
Date of Issue
2013-06
Date
Jun-13
Publisher
Monterey, California: Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
Several advances are made toward a microelectromechanical (MEMS) acoustic direction-finding sensor based on the Ormia ochracea fly’s ear. First, linear elastic stiffness models are presented and then validated by using a nanoindenter to measure the sensor’s stiffness directly. The measured stiffness is highly linear, and the resonant frequencies are correctly predicted by the models presented. Additional nanoindenter results suggest that the sensor can be exposed to at least 162 decibel sound pressure level with no loss of function. Next, an improved capacitive readout system using branched comb fingers is presented. This design is shown to double electrical sensitivity to motion. Finally, it is shown that residual stress-induced curvature in the sensors greatly reduces their sensitivity by effectively shrinking the readout capacitors. A simple model of this curvature is presented and then verified by measurements. This model offers an extremely straightforward means of predicting curvature in similarly fabricated structures. It is also shown that perforations in the sensor’s structure have no effect on curvature. The results presented here provide several essential tools for the continued development of the MEMS acoustic direction-finding sensor.
Type
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Physics
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funder
Format
Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.