BHA250 Sensors, Transducers

Motion sensors have been a staple of the automation industry for many years, with each model offering differing capabilities regarding accuracy and sensitivity. Accelerometers, specifically, can provide vital information regarding a wide range of motion-related measurements. An example of such a sensor is the BHA250, a robust and reliable motion sensor equipped with a variety of features. Below is a discussion of the application field and working principle of the BHA250.

The Application Field of the BHA250

The BHA250 motion sensor makes use of the common single-axis accelerometer design, with the sensing element measuring displacement, vibration, or shock. The sensor is highly competitive, providing more reliable and accurate data than similar sensors, and is often recommended for use in measuring linear acceleration and tilt. The broad range of applications that the BHA250 can be used in includes the following:

• Structural monitoring – The BHA250 can serve as a tool for monitoring deformations in structures that have experienced loading or unforeseen stress.
• Consumer electronics – The BHA250 is also highly useful as a component for consumer electronics, ranging from gaming and health devices to interactive surfaces.
• Robotics – Lastly, the sensor is perfect for robotic applications, allowing the machine to detect its current orientation for precise navigation.

The Working Principle of the BHA250

The primary component within the BHA250 accelerometer is a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) device that functions as the internal sensing element. The MEMS consists of a proof mass, which is suspended in the middle of the device’s microscopic gap and held in place by four springs. As an external force such as gravity or an acceleratory force acts on the device, the proof mass moves within the gap as the springs flex and either increase or decrease the gap’s size. As these changes in distance and motion occur, they are then measured by the capacitive sensing elements and passed along in the form of a voltage, which can be read and interpreted by the accompanying microcontroller.

Conclusion

The BHA250 is a motion sensor made up of a single-axis accelerometer design and is capable of accurately detecting acceleration, displacement, shock, and vibration; making it a great choice for many applications from structural monitoring to robots. Utilizing a micro-electromechanical system, the device is able to measure a variety of forces imparted to its proof mass as it moves within the device’s microscopic gap. With its diverse range of applications and reliable working principle, the BHA250 soon became one of the most popular motion sensors on the market.