Patent attributes
A microelectromechanical device includes a semi-flexible proof-mass comprising a primary part, a secondary part and a stiff spring suspending the primary part and the secondary part. The spring causes the parts to move as a single entity when the device is in its normal range. A first stopper structure stops the primary part. The proof-mass is configured to deform through deflection of the spring, when the device is subjected to a shock having a force that is beyond the normal operation range. While the shock causes motion of the proof-mass in one direction along an axis of movement, the spring is configured to cause a restoring force causing the secondary part of the proof-mass to be driven into a restoring motion in a direction opposite to motion along an axis caused by the shock. Momentum of the secondary part causes the primary part to dislodge from the first stopper structure.
