Microelectromechanical vibration sensor with optical interconnects

A resonant vibration sensor realized using silicon micromachining for wear monitoring of rotating machinery is described. It comprises a mechanical resonator, piezoresistive bridge, and components for fiber-optical signal readout by an infrared light-emitting diode. The performance of the microsystem is demonstrated by its static and dynamical behavior. The results confirm that the described sensor has the potential for on-line vibration control of rotating machinery operated under the conditions of industrial production.