Capacitive accelerometers

Capacitive Accelerometers – Precise Acceleration Measurement for Demanding Applications

Capacitive accelerometers are high-precision sensors used to measure linear acceleration and vibration. They are applied in a wide range of technical and industrial environments where even the smallest movements or dynamic forces must be reliably detected.

A capacitive accelerometer operates based on changes in capacitance within a sensor system. When a sensitive internal mass moves due to acceleration, the distance between capacitor plates changes, resulting in a measurable variation in capacitance. This change is electronically processed and converted into an electrical output signal proportional to the acceleration.

Capacitive accelerometers are characterized by high resolution, excellent stability, and the ability to accurately measure very small accelerations. This makes them particularly suitable for applications in automotive engineering, aerospace, industrial automation, and measurement and testing systems.

At Althen Sensors & Controls, you will find a range of high-quality capacitive accelerometers designed for precise measurement tasks in research, development, and industrial applications.

How Capacitive Accelerometers Work

A capacitive accelerometer measures acceleration using a movable mass inside the sensor. This mass is positioned between capacitor plates and responds to external acceleration forces. When an object accelerates, the internal mass moves relative to the sensor housing, changing the distance between the capacitor plates. This results in a change in electrical capacitance, which is detected by the sensor element.

The sensor electronics then convert this capacitance change into an electrical signal—typically an analog voltage or another proportional output. The magnitude of this signal directly corresponds to the measured acceleration. Thanks to this measurement principle, capacitive accelerometers are capable of detecting very small accelerations and slow movements with high accuracy.

Advantages of Capacitive Accelerometers

• Very high sensitivity
  Capacitive sensors can precisely measure even the smallest accelerations, making them ideal for high-resolution measurement tasks.
• High accuracy at low frequencies
  This measurement principle is particularly suitable for applications involving slow movements or low-frequency signals.
• Low long-term drift
  Capacitive accelerometers provide stable measurement performance over extended periods.
• High signal quality
  These sensors deliver stable, low-noise output signals for precise measurements.
• Robust sensor technology
  Designed for demanding technical applications, capacitive accelerometers offer high reliability.

Typical Applications

Capacitive accelerometers are used across many industries, particularly in applications requiring precise acceleration data:

• Automotive engineering and vehicle dynamics measurement
• Aerospace engineering
• Vibration and motion analysis
• Measurement and testing technology
• Industrial automation
• Structural and condition monitoring
• Research and development
• Calibration and test systems

How to Choose the Right Capacitive Accelerometer

When selecting a suitable capacitive accelerometer, several technical requirements should be considered to ensure accurate and reliable measurements.

• Measurement range
  Depending on the application, sensors may be required for detecting very small accelerations or handling larger dynamic ranges.
• Sensitivity and resolution
  High sensor resolution is essential for precise measurement tasks, especially when detecting low-level signals.
• Frequency range
  The sensor should match the dynamic behavior of the measured motion. Capacitive accelerometers are particularly well-suited for low-frequency and quasi-static measurements.
• Environmental conditions
  Factors such as temperature, vibration, and electromagnetic interference can influence sensor performance and must be taken into account.
• Output signal and integration
  Depending on the measurement system, different analog or digital interfaces may be required for seamless integration.

We are happy to support you in selecting the right capacitive accelerometer for your application. Contact us!