Advances in wave sensing using MEMS

Advances in semiconductor technologies have enabled a new generation of small, accurate, low power sensors. The capabilities of these sensors, combined with similar advances in microprocessing capabilities, have enabled the integration of sensors and on-board processing algorithms that bring a wealth of possibilities. This paper will explore the use of one such sensor-microprocessor combination and its application to buoy-based directional wave sensing for weather and oceanographic applications. The basic design of this sensor, some of the algorithms used, and the limitations, implications and possibilities for this approach will be explored.