Silicon Designs, Inc. (SDI) has spent three decades engineering accelerometer solutions for the marine sector’s toughest environments. The company’s proven technology guides dynamic positioning systems, monitors offshore structural integrity, and enables precise subsea operations.
Established initially to serve the unique demands of government and defense applications, SDI has continuously refined its accelerometers to deliver unmatched accuracy and resilience.
From deep-sea exploration to critical offshore drilling operations, SDI’s miniature MEMS accelerometers have become essential for navigation, stability, and monitoring in the marine and offshore sectors.
Company History
SDI’s journey began with a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant in the 1980s, focusing on radiation-hardened accelerometers for the U.S. Department of Defense’s “Star Wars” program. With continuous innovation, the company went on to secure 25 additional SBIR Phase I and II awards, leading to a portfolio of accelerometers widely adopted across industries for their durability and precision.
A significant achievement came in 1997, when the Small Business Administration recognized SDI with the Tibbetts Award for stimulating technological innovation and spurring business growth. This milestone highlighted SDI’s commitment to developing advanced sensor technologies with real-world impact across challenging environments.
In 1999, SDI’s accelerometer technology was inducted into the Space Technology Hall of Fame, recognizing the successful adaptation of its designs from space missions to terrestrial applications across sectors such as oil and gas, where reliability in extreme conditions is paramount.
Today’s Technology
Silicon Designs’ accelerometers have become integral to marine operations, where precise and reliable sensor data is essential for stability, navigational accuracy, and equipment safety. Notably, the accelerometers’ rugged construction allows them to endure high temperatures, vibration, and prolonged exposure to harsh elements, addressing the rigorous demands of both surface vessels and deep-sea equipment.
In offshore drilling and marine R&D, SDI’s MEMS DC accelerometers are widely used to monitor and adjust for the complex movements of platforms and underwater vehicles, providing real-time data that supports both safety and operational efficiency.
SDI’s sensors offer long-term stability in high-temperature conditions, up to 175°C, enabling applications in hostile environments such as measurement while drilling (MWD) and logging while drilling (LWD). Their high levels of stability are critical for equipment reliability, as even minor deviations in sensor performance can lead to inaccurate data and compromised operations.
As the marine industry embraces unmanned and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) for complex exploration and inspection tasks, SDI’s accelerometers are increasingly utilized to enhance navigational stability. The tactical-grade precision offered by SDI’s sensors provides AUVs with the stability required to navigate reliably across vast underwater distances, even when GPS is unavailable.
By supporting real-time motion sensing, SDI accelerometers enable autonomous systems to adapt to underwater currents, maintain orientation, and execute precise maneuvers, ensuring mission success in challenging environments.
Silicon Designs continues to push the boundaries of accelerometer technology, aiming to deliver next-generation solutions for the evolving needs of the marine and offshore industries. With advancements in MEMS technology and a commitment to quality, SDI remains dedicated to supporting sustainable and safe marine operations.
The company’s accelerometers now play a crucial role in facilitating precise navigation and stability for vessels and underwater systems across diverse applications, from offshore energy production to environmental research.
By continuing to evolve its rugged sensor technology, Silicon Designs is positioned to support the maritime industry’s drive toward enhanced safety, efficiency, and operational performance for years to come.
