Force Sensors

Force sensors can monitor how much force is applied to the target. It has a various use cases including:

• Injection Molding - clamping force sensor to measure the force applied.

  1. Install load cells on the clamping unit.

  2. To prevent mold opening or excessive stress, monitor the force periodically if it is within the optimal range.

  3. Stop applying the force if the measured force is out of the range.

• Surgical Robotics - miniature force sensor to integrate with surgical instruments and measure the force applied.

  1. Install the sensor in the catheters.

  2. Measure the pressure periodically and notify surgeons to control, reducing the risk of unintended damage to blood vessels.

• Tire Pressure Monitoring System

  1. Each tire has a pressure sensor installed inside the valve stem.

  2. The sensor monitors the air pressure periodically and if the measurement is lower then threshold, the system triggers a warning light on the dashboard.

• Space Applications - docking system between spacecraft

  1. Measure direct forces by detecting strain in docking structures. Multi-axis force sensor in the system measure the actual force exerted at the interface.

  2. Installed on docking interfaces to provide the force feedback. Adjust alignment dynamically.

• Grip Strength Measurement - using strain gauges

  1. Used in grip dynamometers to measure hand strength in sports

Five examples are introduced above: Quality check for manufacturing, medical device, safety for auto, non-gravity environment support and sports applications.