Grant: Idea to Innovation

Over the past four years, researchers from SFU have developed micromachined accelerometers with an unprecedented combination of performance metrics, including sub-µg resolution, bandwidths of up to 10kHz, and dynamic ranges of better than 120dB. These devices were developed to replace hydrophones in sonar systems in collaboration with our industrial partner, Ultra Electronics Maritime Systems. The goal of the initial work was to deliver prototypes that met the desired performance levels within three years that could be entirely manufactured in Canada as the intended application was in defense market. Over the course of this effort, we developed novel device designs, new microfabrication processes, a suitable packaging process, low-noise interface electronics, and in-package pressure monitoring solutions. We further developed techniques for measurement of noise and full characterization of the fabricated devices. In summer 2016, we shipped our packaged devices to UEMS as the last phase of original research project.No other device exists in the market that can perform nearly as well as our developed prototypes. The aim of this proposal is to work with commercial foundries to transfer our in-house microfabrication and packaging processes to industrial microfabrication facilities. As our original partner, UEMS has maintained the rights to use the devices in sonar applications while SFU has retained the rights to exploit other markets such as structural health monitoring, vibration monitoring, seismic imaging, and emerging applications.To achieve this goal, we will rely on our competent team of HQP who have developed SFU Accelerometers with unprecedented level of performance. Aiming to serve a US$350M market by 2020, our strategy forward is to spin-off a company to not only develop and provide devices for UEMS, but also address existing opportunities in other applications that require the extreme performance of SFU Accelerometers.This funding is critically needed to maintain the pace and let us keep our core team of trained and experienced HQP to ensure continuity and success.