Surface acoustic wave sensors in mechanical engineering

Abstract

Surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensors are used for identification and measuring of physical quantities such as temperature, pressure, torque, acceleration, tire-road friction, humidity, etc. They do not need additional power supply for the sensor elements and may be accessed wirelessly, enabling the use in harsh indoor/outdoor environments. Types, operating principles and analysis of SAW sensors are explained. A few application examples of the wireless measurements in automotive and railway vehicles are presented.

Keywords

• saw sensor
• wireless sensor
• transponder
• temperature sensor
• pressure sensor