Abstract: A piezoresistive sensing structure includes an assembly formed of a semiconductor material and including a cavity and a plurality of piezoresistive elements implanted into the assembly. The assembly includes a central mass coupled to a peripheral frame with a plurality of beams. Each beam is about 15 microns in width and includes one of the piezoresistive elements. The assembly may also include a first wafer having the cavity formed into a first side, and a second wafer with a plurality of beams formed in a first side. The second side of the second wafer is bonded to the first side of the first wafer.

Abstract: A technique for manufacturing a piezoresistive sensing structure includes a number of process steps. Initially, a piezoresistive element is implanted into a first side of an assembly that includes a semiconductor material. A passivation layer is then formed on the first side of the assembly over the element. The passivation layer is then removed from selected areas on the first side of the assembly. A first mask is then provided on the passivation layer in a desired pattern. A beam, which includes the element, is then formed in the assembly over at least a portion of the assembly that is to provide a cavity. The passivation layer provides a second mask, in the formation of the beam, that determines a width of the formed beam.