Performance augmentation of low cost sensors

In recent years, new low-cost sensors have emerged, thanks mainly to the revolution in microchip technology. These sensors are based on technology referred to as 'microelectromechanical systems' (MEMS). The current state of the art offers sensors that are usually less accurate than their traditional mechanical counterparts. Commercial off-the-shelf MEMS devices include accelerometers and rate-gyros. MEMS accelerometers may be used to activate air bags in cars. Typically, sensors based on MEMS are less accurate, however they are small in size, low in weight and, most importantly, less expensive. This paper summarizes the first phase of a research program utilizing soft computing (SC) methodologies to augment the performance of low-cost MEMS devices. Experimental results demonstrate an improvement in accuracy of an order of magnitude. The research work will be further enhanced to consider more parameters affecting the MEMS performance.