Dynamic calibration uncertainty of three-axis low frequency accelerometers

Abstract

In this paper a methodology concerning the static and dynamic calibration of three-axis low-cost accelerometers in the (0 to 10) Hz frequency range is described, to be used for evaluation of existing civil infrastructures. <br /> Main and cross sensitivities of the accelerometers have been experimentally estimated by means of the matrix sensitivity concept. <br />The standard deviation of accelerations obtained along all three axes using different calibration data sets in repeatability conditions has been calculated and intended as dynamic calibration uncertainty. <br />The method has been validated by using reference accelerations accurately realized, in order to evaluate the residual bias error. <br />Static and dynamic calibration test benches have been used to realize reference accelerations. In order to create a three-axis acceleration field, a mechanical arm is used in static calibration; a rotary device is used in order to test the accelerometers in dynamic conditions. <br />According to the procedure described in this paper, a great improvement of the low cost accelerometers' metrological characterization could be achieved, especially in dynamic working conditions.