What is a Force Sensor?

How Do Force Sensors Work?

Just as the load cell operates on the principle of deformation due to an applied weight, the force sensor (or force probe), follows the same concept but primarily measures force in terms of tension, compression, and shear. The science behind force sensors is similar to that of force transducers in that they use sensing techniques such as piezoelectric effect, strain gauge, capacitive sensing, optical force sensors, and magnetic force sensors.

Types of Force Sensors

When you start learning about force sensors, force transducers or force probes, you'll discover a variety of force measurement devices. Each type is uniquely designed to perform optimally under specific conditions and requirements. Let's now look at the main types of force sensors to better understand how they work.

• Strain Gauge Force Sensor: Measures force by transforming the deformation of the structure, caused by the applied force, into an electrical signal. This type of force sensor is popular due to its accuracy, reliability, and versatility.
• Piezoelectric Force Sensor: Generates an electrical charge when a force is applied. They are best suited for dynamic force measurements because they can measure rapid changes in force levels accurately.
• Capacitive Force Sensor: Works on the principle of change in capacitance due to deformation under applied force. Flexible force sensors in this category are particularly suited for applications where low force measurement is needed.
• Optical Force Sensor: Measures the change in light intensity, frequency, or phase characteristics due to the applied force, making them ideal for applications requiring a high degree of precision and accuracy.
• Magnetic Force Sensor: Measures the change in magnetic field due to applied force. They are often used in environments with high electromagnetic interference as they are immune to such disturbances.
   

Applications of Force Sensors

Force sensors find applications in a broad range of industries. In robotics, they are used to give the robots a sense of touch or grip. In healthcare, they are applied in devices like blood pressure monitors. The automotive industry uses force sensors for quality control in touch-sensitive applications, while in the electronics industry, they are used to test the quality of switches, buttons, and touchscreens.

Force sensors also play a vital role in safety devices such as airbags in vehicles, where an immediate response is required. In the manufacturing industry, they ensure the precision of machinery operation by monitoring force variation during the production process. In addition to these, force sensors are also used in aerospace, defence, consumer electronics, and more.

Choose the Right Force Sensor

Choosing the right force sensor depends on multiple factors such as the type of force to be measured (tension, compression, shear), the range of force, accuracy requirements, environmental conditions, and the space available for installation.

At Flintec, we offer a comprehensive range of high-quality force sensors that are versatile, reliable, and can be tailor-made for various industrial applications. Our team is committed to helping you choose the right force sensor for your specific needs. Contact us today to learn more about our force sensor solutions and how they can enhance your operations.

Remember, a force sensor is more than a device – it's a critical part of your system that ensures accuracy, efficiency, and safety.