Micromechanical shock sensor

Patent 6737979 Issued on May 18, 2004. Estimated Expiration Date:

December 4, 2021. Estimated Expiration Date is calculated based on simple USPTO term provisions. It does not account for terminal disclaimers, term adjustments, failure to pay maintenance fees, or other factors which might affect the term of a patent.

Abstract Claims Description Full Text

Patent References

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Inventors

Application

No. 10021700 filed on 12/04/2001

US Classes:

340/665, Force or stress340/666, Weight340/669, Acceleration340/689, Tilt340/686.6, Proximity or distance340/691.7, Mechanical340/672Direction of shaft rotation

Examiners

Primary: Hofsass, Jeffery
Assistant: Previl, Daniel

Attorney, Agent or Firm

Homer; Mark

International Class

G08B 2100

Abstract

The invention comprises a micromechanical shock sensor that is formed on the surface of a micro-substrate. A moveable proof mass is formed on the surface with at least one spring connected to the proof mass and the surface. The spring allows the proof mass to move a predetermined distance. Latching means are formed on the surface the predetermined distance from the proof mass. When the sensor is subjected to a sufficient shock, the proof mass moves and contacts the latching means. An indicator means is provided to allow this contact to be readily known by the user.