Towards fractional sensors

This paper proposes a new sensor architecture inspired on the classical accelerometer and the fractional calculus. The fractional sensor (FS) adopts a modular construction with N ∈ ？ stages, where each stage consists of an association of mass–spring–damper elements. A proper selection of the elements in the global mechanical structure yields fractional-order characteristics. The frequency and time responses of the proposed apparatus are studied and compared with those exhibited by an ideal fractional order device. The FS can be implemented by means of modern fabrication techniques used with micro electro-mechanical systems