Measurements of Acceleration as a Basis for Designing New Devices

New applications of acceleration measurements are discussed, with a focus on employing microelectromechanical system accelerometers for this purpose (due to their outstanding advantages). Some examples of such applications are presented and discussed in the paper. They are mostly related to single- or dual-axis tilt measurements under static or quasi-static conditions. The paper describes and illustrates examples of such measurements in various fields, like scuba diving and freediving or motorcycle riding, where the application of microelectromechanical system accelerometers is closely related to human safety. The considerations regard both successful commercial implementations and some of the latest patents pending.