Importance

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Abstract

The accelerometer is linear having a substantially planar plate-like proof mass (9) mounted by four or more flexible mounting legs (8) each co-planar with the proof mass (9) to a substantially planar plate-like support (10) fixedly mounted relative to the proof mass (9) and co-planar therewith. In this way the proof mass (9) is mounted for linear movement in a sensing direction in the plane containing the proof mass (9), mounting legs (8) and support (10) to sense acceleration change applied to the accelerometer. At least two spaced apart substantially planar capacitor plates (11) each co-planar with the proof mass, mounting legs and support, are provided for sensing linear movement of the proof mass (9) in the sensing direction C. The proof mass (9), mounting legs (8), support (10) and capacitor blades (11) are formed from a single sheet of silicon and the mounting legs (8) extend substantially perpendicularly to the sensing direction C. Restoring means are provided for returning the proof mass (9) in the sensing direction C towards a null position.

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First Claim