Nonlinear operation of resonant sensors based on weakly-coupled resonators: theory and modeling

• Published in: IEEE transactions on ultrasonics, ferroelectrics, and frequency control Vol. 66; no. 12; p. 1
• Main Authors: Juillard, J., Mostafa, A., Ferreira, P. M.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States IEEE 01.12.2019; The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. (IEEE); Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
• Subjects: Amplitudes; Computer simulation; Damping; Electronics; Engineering Sciences; Mathematical model; Micro and nanotechnologies; Microelectronics; Noise measurement; Oscillators; Resonators; Sensitivity; Sensors; Steady-state; Variation
• ISSN: 0885-3010; 1525-8955; 1525-8955
• DOI: 10.1109/TUFFC.2019.2932792

This theoretical work investigates the properties of nonlinearly-operated weakly-coupled resonators (WCRs) for resonant sensing applications. We propose an analysis framework for mutually injection-locked oscillators (MILOs) and mode-localized oscillators (MOLOs), subject to nonlinear restoring and damping forces. Under some simplifying assumptions, three sensor architectures are investigated and compared, highlighting several common features such as: (i) the insensitivity of the amplitude ratio output metric to the A-f effect, (ii) the instability of one oscillation state above a threshold amplitude. These results are illustrated and validated using transient simulations. Their range of validity is then discussed with respect to finite perturbations, finite bandwidth, measurement noise and nonlinear dissipation-fluctuation.