A sensor whose resistance changes based on the amount of force applied.
Description:
This device is a variable resistor that reacts to pressing.
How It Works:
The semi-conductive material inside this sensor becomes more conductive when it is squeezed together.
Connect It:
This device has two wire leads, and is often connected to the analog input of a microcontroller. Force sensors are not polarized, which means they can be connected either way around.
How It Is Used:
Select the device during simulation and to display a slider representing pressing force. Drag the slider up and down to change the amount of force.
Get Started:
Drag the starter circuit below into your design for a working example of how to use this part.
More About Force Sensor:
To add a Force Sensor in Tinkercad, search for "Force Sensor" in the component library, drag it onto your breadboard, and connect its terminals with wires to other components in your circuit. You can then click on the Force Sensor to set its name for easy identification.
A force sensor is a type of transducer that measures the amount of force applied to an object. These sensors convert mechanical force into an electrical signal, typically a change in resistance, capacitance, or voltage. The most common types of force sensors are strain gauge-based sensors, piezoelectric sensors, and capacitive sensors. Strain gauge force sensors measure the deformation (strain) of a material when a force is applied, and the change in resistance is used to determine the force. Piezoelectric force sensors generate an electrical charge in response to mechanical stress and are particularly useful for dynamic force measurements. Capacitive force sensors measure changes in capacitance due to deformation when a force is applied, offering high sensitivity and accuracy. Key specifications for force sensors include their force range, which can vary from milligrams (mg) for ultra-sensitive applications to several tons (for industrial applications). The accuracy typically ranges from ±0.1% to ±1% of full-scale output. The sensitivity of the sensor, defined by the output signal per unit of force, is usually given in mV/N (millivolts per newton) or V/N (volts per newton). The power rating is usually low, with most sensors operating at 3V to 10V and consuming only a few milliwatts (mW) of power. Response time (how fast the sensor reacts to a change in force) is typically in the range of milliseconds. The working temperature range of force sensors is typically between -40°C to +85°C, although industrial-grade sensors can operate in more extreme conditions. Force sensors are typically calibrated in newtons (N) or pounds (lbs) for force, millivolts (mV) or volts (V) for output signal, and watts (W) for power consumption.
1. Electronics Tutorials – Force Sensing Resistors
Website Title: Electronics Tutorials
Website Page URL: https://www.electronics-tutorials.ws/blog/force-sensing-resistor.html
URL recommended for: A solid introduction to how force sensing resistors (FSRs) work, including circuit examples and explanation of their electrical behavior under varying pressure.
2. Adafruit Learning System – Force Sensitive Resistor (FSR) Guide
Website Title: Adafruit
Website Page URL: https://learn.adafruit.com/force-sensitive-resistor-fsr
URL recommended for: Beginner-friendly guide with step-by-step instructions on how to use FSRs in practical projects. Great for hobbyists and educators.
3. SparkFun – Force Sensitive Resistor Hookup Guide
Website Title: SparkFun Electronics
Website Page URL: https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/force-sensitive-resistor-hookup-guide
URL recommended for: Practical tutorial for setting up and using force sensors in Arduino-based projects. Includes wiring diagrams and code examples.
4. All About Circuits – Force Sensors Overview
Website Title: All About Circuits
Website Page URL: https://www.allaboutcircuits.com/technical-articles/introduction-to-force-sensors/
URL recommended for: A well-written technical article that explains the various types of force sensors and their applications, including piezoelectric and strain gauge types.
5. Tekscan – Force Sensors Technical Resources
Website Title: Tekscan
Website Page URL: https://www.tekscan.com/pressure-mapping-sensors/force-sensors
URL recommended for: A professional-level resource with in-depth technical details, product datasheets, and real-world applications of thin-film force sensors.
6. Digi-Key – Force Sensors Product Listings
Website Title: Digi-Key Electronics
Website Page URL: https://www.digikey.com/en/products/filter/force-sensors/520
URL recommended for: A comprehensive catalog of force sensors from various manufacturers, complete with specifications and datasheets. Useful for comparison and purchasing decisions.
7. NI (National Instruments) – Sensor Fundamentals: Force Sensors
Website Title: National Instruments
Website Page URL: https://www.ni.com/en-us/innovations/force-sensor.html
URL recommended for: Advanced insights into force sensors used in engineering and automation. Ideal for professionals and students in mechatronics or instrumentation.
8. Instructables – Force Sensor Projects
Website Title: Instructables
Website Page URL: https://www.instructables.com/howto/force+sensor/
URL recommended for: A great collection of DIY projects using force sensors in creative applications, from robotic grips to pressure-sensitive mats.
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Quickly Master Electronics with the TinkerCAD Circuits Reference Handbook
…till next post, bye-bye & take care.
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