MICROMACHINED STRAIN SENSOR

摘要

A micromachined strain sensor to be incorporated in a sealed package with other microelectrical and micromechanical components, with the residual strain being monitored electronically from outside the package to allow strain to be monitored during production and during the life of the component. The strain sensor includes at least one microstructural beam member anchored to a substrate at one position and having a portion which is freed from the substrate during formation to displace as a result of the strain in the beam member. At least one electrically conductive displaceable tine is connected to the beam member to be displaced as it is freed. A mating electrically conductive tine is mounted to the substrate adjacent to the displaceable tine such that a capacitor is formed between the adjacent tines.