Miniaturized seismic sensing through precision mesoscale fabrication.
This landmark study presents the culmination of Silicon Audio’s multi-year program developing micro-seismometers using advanced meso-scale fabrication. It demonstrates substantial progress in miniaturizing seismic sensing technology while maintaining exceptional sensitivity and low noise performance. Novel fabrication methods enabled precise control over geometry and materials, producing compact sensors capable of detecting ground motion with unprecedented accuracy. Originally developed for nuclear-explosion monitoring, this work established the foundation for high-performance, field-deployable seismometers built on optical interferometric readout.
http://www.osti.gov/scitech/biblio/1027453
Advancing miniaturization and precision for next-generation micro-seismometers.
This paper reports major progress in Silicon Audio’s fabrication and packaging methods for small-form seismic sensors. It details new meso-scale processes enabling control of resonant frequency, damping, and sensitivity without compromising durability. The study highlights novel production techniques ensuring device consistency and improved long-term stability under harsh conditions. These refinements marked Silicon Audio’s transition from laboratory prototypes toward reliable, field-ready instruments.
Establishing the foundation for optical interferometric seismic sensing.
This foundational research introduces Silicon Audio’s early micromachining approaches for compact, low-power seismic sensors. It demonstrates fabrication of micro-scale mechanical structures with tightly controlled dynamic properties, achieving high sensitivity and stability in reduced form factors. The work addresses limitations of conventional seismometers by optimizing material processing and device geometry to improve signal-to-noise ratios. These concepts became the framework for later optical-interferometric seismometer development.
Inaugural demonstration of mesoscale fabrication for high-sensitivity seismic detection.
The first publication in Silicon Audio’s research series introduced mesoscale fabrication concepts that would redefine seismic instrumentation. Led by N. A. Hall, this work proposed techniques for precise control of mechanical properties at the microscale, enabling compact sensors with high sensitivity suitable for nuclear-monitoring applications. The results established the scientific basis for subsequent advances in optical readout and space-qualified seismic platforms.
NASA-funded validation of Silicon Audio’s optical technology for extraterrestrial seismic monitoring.
The SIIOS mission explores the deployment of Silicon Audio’s ultra-sensitive optical seismometers on lunar and icy-moon surfaces. Using a gas-jet system to bury instruments beneath regolith, the project tests environmental resilience under extreme thermal and impact conditions. This effort confirms the adaptability of Silicon Audio’s fabrication methods from terrestrial applications to space exploration and highlights their role in future planetary science missions.
Field validation of Silicon Audio’s ultra-low-noise accelerometer performance.
This comparative field study evaluated Silicon Audio’s SA-ULN accelerometers in a deep borehole in Sidney, BC, alongside conventional geophones and broadband sensors. Results demonstrated significant improvements in low-frequency response and overall noise performance. The findings verify the ability of Silicon Audio’s optical interferometric design to capture subtle seismic phenomena and position the sensors as viable replacements for traditional instruments in demanding monitoring environments.
From advanced research to commercial impact under U.S. Department of Energy funding.
Recognized by the DOE’s Small Business Innovation Research program, this success story traces Silicon Audio’s progression from prototype development to commercial optical seismic sensors. The report notes acceptance into the USGS vendor list and key partnerships with NASA and major universities. The work validates the scalability and reliability of Silicon Audio’s interferometric technology for nuclear treaty verification, energy research, and planetary exploration.
U.S. Department of Energy, “SBIR/STTR Success Story: Silicon Audio,” DOE Office of Science, 2016.
Exploring the optical foundations of Silicon Audio’s high-sensitivity sensor architecture.
This research analyzes optical interferometric readout mechanisms enabling Silicon Audio’s accelerometers to reach exceptional sensitivity in miniaturized designs. It outlines solutions for maintaining optical alignment and stability over time and under environmental stress. The study reinforces the company’s pioneering integration of micromachining with optical sensing, achieving performance once limited to large laboratory instruments.
Bridging Silicon Audio research with space science collaboration.
Brad Avenson’s participation in the Lunar & Planetary Laboratory’s SIIOS project links Silicon Audio’s engineering expertise directly to active NASA research. As a principal designer of interferometric optical seismometers, his involvement confirms the suitability of Silicon Audio technology for future planetary seismic missions and underscores its transition from terrestrial to extraterrestrial applications.
Lunar and Planetary Laboratory, “SIIOS Team Listing – Brad Avenson,” University of Arizona, 2019.