Accelerometers - a device for measuring acceleration projections of objects to which they are attached. According to the measured value calculated acceleration speed and position of a moving object in space.
According to Newton’s second law (F=mA) sensor for measuring acceleration (A) is based on the definition of force (F), acting on a mass (m). Zero acceleration occurs when the force F has no effect on weight. Acceleration is directly proportional if the force has constant weight. Methods of construction accelerometers are many, but common to them is the presence of their structure inertial mass.
Fig. 59. The principle of measuring acceleration
Consider the principle of the accelerometer using a simplified model of of the spring accelerometer with inertial sensing elements (Fig. 59). Housing accelerometer connected to the personal computer. Sensitive element is the inertial mass, which is fixed between the springs. Under the influence of the inertia, the moving mass deviates from the initial position. Deviations fixed by the change in capacitance between the two plates of the capacitor.