Abstract: An apparatus and method for detecting multiple beams from a beamsplitter is disclosed. Some embodiments of the present invention are particularly well-suited for use in microphones, high-sensitivity pressure sensors, vibration sensors, and accelerometer applications. Some embodiments of the present invention generate a differential electrical output signal that is based on multiple detected optical signals. The differential output signal is generated in response to an environmental stimulus, such as a pressure differential or incident acoustic energy. In accordance with the illustrative embodiment, an optical displacement sensor redirects the transmitted beam back through the optically-resonant cavity with an angular offset. Due to the angular offset, the redirected beam (i.e., retransmitted beam) transits the cavity with an intra-cavity path length that corresponds to substantially full transmittance of the retransmitted beam in the absence of the environmental stimulus.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for detecting multiple beams from a beamsplitter is disclosed. Some embodiments of the present invention are particularly well-suited for use in microphones, high-sensitivity pressure sensors, vibration sensors, and accelerometer applications. Some embodiments of the present invention generate a differential electrical output signal that is based on multiple detected optical signals. The differential output signal is generated in response to an environmental stimulus, such as a pressure differential or incident acoustic energy. In accordance with the illustrative embodiment, an optical displacement sensor redirects the transmitted beam back through the optically-resonant cavity with an angular offset. Due to the angular offset, the redirected beam (i.e., retransmitted beam) transits the cavity with an intra-cavity path length that corresponds to substantially full transmittance of the retransmitted beam in the absence of the environmental stimulus.