ACCELEROMETRE

An accelerometer includes a hinged proof mass constrained from movement by a beam resonator force transducer. To afford greater movement of the proof mass and greater latitude in positioning mechanical stops, one end of the force transducer is connected with the accelerometer base through a compliant mount. The other end of the force transducer is connected with the proof mass at the center of percussion of the proof mass. Adjacent surfaces of the proof mass and base provide squeeze film viscous gas damping. A pair of proof mass-force transducer systems are mounted on a carrier in opposite positions with the sensitive axes of the proof masses aligned and the proof mass hinge axes parallel and opposed to each other.