The working principle of electronic single and multi-point inclinometers is primarily based on MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) technology. Here is a detailed explanation of how they work:

Working Principle

Electronic single and multi-point inclinometers measure the tilt angle of an object relative to gravity using accelerometers. The accelerometer monitors the gravitational effect on a small mass block supported by an elastic structure. When the device tilts, this mass block slightly moves, causing a change in the capacitance between the mass block and the support structure. By measuring these capacitance changes, the tilt angle can be calculated.

The sensor typically includes a fixed electrode and a movable proof mass electrode connected by a spring element. When the inclinometer is in a horizontal position, the capacitance between the two electrodes is measured. If the sensor tilts, the movable mass and its electrode change position relative to the fixed electrode, resulting in a change in capacitance between the two electrodes. The sensor unit measures this capacitance change and uses it to calculate the new tilt value.

The acceleration information collected by the sensor is internally converted and output as voltage values, divided into two channels: one for measuring acceleration in the X-axis direction and another for the Y-axis direction. These two voltage signals are processed through low-pass filters and operational amplifiers to amplify the output voltage, which is then sent to an A/D conversion module. The A/D conversion module outputs an 8-bit digital signal to a microcontroller for processing, which ultimately outputs serial data through a digital display circuit to show the platform's tilt angle.

Electronic single and multi-point inclinometers typically contain two MEMS sensors installed perpendicularly to each other (dual-axis), allowing independent measurement of tilt angles in two vertical planes. This design enables the inclinometer to measure tilt angles in multiple directions, providing more comprehensive tilt information.

Some electronic single and multi-point inclinometers connect to other devices or computers via an RS485 interface, allowing real-time transmission of measurement data. Data transmission typically uses asynchronous communication with 7 data bits, 2 stop bits, no parity, and a baud rate of 9600.

To improve measurement accuracy, electronic single and multi-point inclinometers often use high-precision electrode arrays to enhance resolution and measurement accuracy. For static or near-static measurements, the movable mass in the sensor is physically damped to reduce sensitivity to frequencies above 29 Hz.