Jun 2 2011
Omron to Develop MEMS Sensing Devices
The Micro Device Division (MDD) of Omron Electronic Components will develop an array of MEMS products such as Thermal IR Sensing Array and Absolute Pressure Sensor in the coming year. The company manufactures advanced electronic components such as optical devices, switches, relays, MEMS flow sensors, connectors, and pressure sensors.
The absolute pressure sensor, fabricated based on piezoresistive pressure sensor technology, will be completed shortly. It is capable of detecting variations in elevation at a resolution below 1 vertical meter. One side of the MEMS absolute pressure sensor is shielded from atmospheric pressure. It can be used to detect a person’s current location in an office building. The maximum operating pressure of the product varies from 50 to 110 kPa. Product applications include enhancing vertical velocity indication, GPS navigation, weather forecasting devices, and portable navigation equipment.
Omron's MDD is developing the MEMS Thermal IR Sensor system for automated systems in buildings and saving energy. The system comprises eight MEMS thermal IR sensors which are aligned in a 1x8 array and can perform scanning of a room or a specific area to detect the presence of an individual. It can be used to evaluate if specific areas need additional cooling or heating. A 4x4 array of MEMS Thermal IR sensors will be developed shortly for use in electric stovetops.
The company will conduct a demonstration of the Thermal IR Sensor on June 7th and 8th at Sensors Expo in Rosemont, IL. It will also showcase the recent additions to their existing pressure and flow products. It will also add a differential pressure type flow sensor, which is 70 mL/min high impedance variant and a 70-200 LPM sensor suitable for high flow applications.