Abstract: A micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) device comprises a fixed portion and a proofmass suspended by at least one composite beam. The composite beam is cantilevered relative to the fixed portion and extends between a first end that is integrally formed with the fixed portion and a second distal end. The composite beam comprises an insulator having a top surface and at least two side surfaces; a conductor extending away from the fixed portion and surrounding at least a portion of the insulator; and a second conductor positioned adjacent to the top surface of the conductor and extending parallel with the insulator away from the fixed portion. The second conductor is separated from the first conductor to provide a low parasitic conductance of the composite beam.

Abstract: A micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) device includes a substrate and a beam suspended relative to a surface of the substrate. The substrate includes a buried insulator layer and a cavity. The beam includes a first portion and a second portion that are separated by an isolation joint. The cavity separates the surface of the substrate from the beam.

Abstract: A sensor having a proximal end and a distal end includes an anchor, a proof mass, a fixed finger, and a movable finger. The anchor is disposed at the proximal end. The proof mass is coupled to the anchor and disposed at a first distance from the anchor. The fixed finger and the movable finger are coupled to the anchor and disposed at a second distance from the anchor at the distal end. The fixed and movable fingers are configured to measure a first capacitance area. A ratio of the first distance over the second distance is between about 0.2 to about 0.6. The ratio is configured to deflect the movable finger at least about 1 ?m relative to the fixed finger.

Abstract: A micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) device includes a substrate and a beam suspended relative to a surface of the substrate. The substrate includes a buried insulator layer and a cavity. The beam includes a first portion and a second portion that are separated by an isolation joint. The cavity separates the surface of the substrate from the beam.

Abstract: A micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) device comprises a fixed portion and a proofmass suspended by at least one composite beam. The composite beam is cantilevered relative to the fixed portion and extends between a first end that is integrally formed with the fixed portion and a second distal end. The composite beam comprises an insulator having a top surface and at least two side surfaces; a conductor extending away from the fixed portion and surrounding at least a portion of the insulator; and a second conductor positioned adjacent to the top surface of the conductor and extending parallel with the insulator away from the fixed portion. The second conductor is separated from the first conductor to provide a low parasitic conductance of the composite beam.