Micromechanic accelerometer. Light micrograph of micromechanical accelerometers used in car airbags. Each one has a set of interlocking 'teeth' (such as at centre) which can move relative to one ano- ther. They contain inductors, devices which gener- ate an electric current in response to a change in the magnetic field. During a high acceleration or deceleration, the 'teeth' move towards each other, causing a change in the magnetic field. The signal from the inductors is then amplified to activate a system which inflates the air-bag. This device has been manufactured, using the same techniques used to make silicon chips, for Daimler-Benz in Germany. Magnification: x100 at 6x9cm size.