MEMS Accelerometer Validation

Overview

Tested MEMS accelerometer prototypes for a wearable chest-vibration sensing patch intended to detect heart and lung vibration signals.

What I Built

• Performed MEMS prototype testing
• Used probe-station microscopy and LCR measurements
• Characterized sub-picofarad capacitance changes
• Supported repeatability testing and drop testing
• Automated capacitance-difference calculations in Excel
• Helped debug plate-stiction issues affecting prototype yield

Technical Details

The device was a non-invasive wearable medical sensing patch intended to detect chest vibrations. Testing focused on capacitance changes in MEMS accelerometer prototypes and validation workflows for repeatability and robustness.

My Role

Daniel worked on device testing, measurement workflows, Excel automation, and debugging support with the engineering team.

Challenges and Debugging

• Measuring very small capacitance differences
• Maintaining repeatability across repeated measurements
• Debugging mechanical stiction between accelerometer plates
• Supporting prototype validation under practical testing conditions

Results

• Improved measurement workflow through Excel automation
• Supported prototype validation and debugging
• Gained hands-on experience with MEMS test equipment and medical sensing hardware

Tools and Skills