Posted to News on 28th Feb 2012, 05:34
Slender Flex Sensor output varies with bend radius
Variohm EuroSensor is introducing the Spectra Symbol Flex Sensor, which is described as a new low-cost angle displacement sensor that registers a resistance change depending on the bend radius induced in the sensor. Currently used in applications as diverse as finger location for gaming gloves to displacement sensing in fitness equipment, the single-piece Flex Sensor is a cost-competitive, compact and elegant position sensor for applications where a bending motion is applied to a device.
At less than 0.5mm thick and with a footprint measuring 74mm x 6.35mm, the standard Flex Sensor has an active length of 55mm and a nominal 25kohm resistance when flat. Normally fixed by an integral self adhesive backing to allow the sensor to bend freely through a typical angle of 90 degrees, the sensor's bend resistance increases in correlation to the bend angle to an upper value between 45 and 125kohm with excellent repeatability. Other versions of the Flex Sensor, with longer active lengths and application-matched resistance values, are available on request.
With added external control the resistive output can be arranged to provide a simple voltage divider with sensitivity adjustment or other output state features such as threshold switching.
The thin membrane construction is both resilient and durable, and can be used within a temperature range of -35 to +80degC for an operational life rating of over one million movements.
Variohm EuroSensor supplies the Flex Sensor along with a wide range of membrane-type linear position sensors from Spectra Symbol that includes contacting and non-contacting devices for stroke sensing of lengths of up to 1000mm. The range is characterised by competitive cost, high performance and ease of installation for applications from medical devices to automotive. Contact Variohm-EuroSensor for more information.
