A Contactless DC Current Sensor Based on Thin-Film Lithium Niobate S0-Mode Lamb Wave Resonator

Wenwei Gao, Hanlun Guan, Huikai Xie, Feng Gao*, Xiaoyi Wang*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

This paper present a novel contactless DC current sensor based on a high frequency S0-mode Lamb wave resonator fabricated on a lithium niobate on insulator (LNOI) substrate, which offers high sensitivity and high Q-value. This current sensor is constructed by mounting a self-aligned micro-magnet on a microcantilever, which also integrates a thin-film Lamb wave resonator serving as a strain sensor. In this design, the magnetic force exerted on the permanent magnet by the DC-current excited magnetic field results in strain on the microcantilever structure. This strain is then detected through the frequency shift of the Lamb wave resonator, allowing for accurate measurement of the current magnitude. The Lamb wave resonator and the microcantilever was fabricated on a LNOI wafer through electrode lift-off and a two-step back-etching process. A 2-μm nickel layer was patterned on the tip of the microcantilever, allowing for the self-alignment of the magnet on the microstructure through the attractive force. The thin-film S0-mode Lamb wave resonator operates at 371.2 MHz with a Q-factor as high as 1432, enabling highly sensitive current measurement. Experimental results show the current sensor achieved a sensitivity of 325 Hz/mA. This sensor holds promising potential for applications in smart meters, electric vehicle charging stations, and other energy systems.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication2025 IEEE 38th International Conference on Micro Electro Mechanical Systems, MEMS 2025
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.
Pages1067-1070
Number of pages4
ISBN (Electronic)9798331508890
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2025
Event38th IEEE International Conference on Micro Electro Mechanical Systems, MEMS 2025 - Kaohsiung, Taiwan, Province of China
Duration: 19 Jan 202523 Jan 2025

Publication series

NameProceedings of the IEEE International Conference on Micro Electro Mechanical Systems (MEMS)
ISSN (Print)1084-6999

Conference

Conference38th IEEE International Conference on Micro Electro Mechanical Systems, MEMS 2025
Country/TerritoryTaiwan, Province of China
CityKaohsiung
Period19/01/2523/01/25

Keywords

  • Contactless Current Sensor
  • S0-mode Lamb Wave Resonator
  • Thin-film Lithium Niobate

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'A Contactless DC Current Sensor Based on Thin-Film Lithium Niobate S0-Mode Lamb Wave Resonator'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this