Force Sensitive Resistor Sensor (FSR)

Force Sensitive Resistor (FSR) Sensor (Big) Overview

1. Type: Force Sensitive Resistor (FSR).
2. Functionality:
   • Force Measurement: Measures the force or pressure applied to its surface by changing its resistance.
   • Analog Output: Provides an analog voltage signal that varies with the applied force.
3. Specifications:
   • Size: Large size variant, typically around 38mm in diameter for the sensing area.
   • Operating Voltage: Typically 5V, but can operate with a range of voltages.
   • Resistance Range: High resistance when no force is applied (~M?), decreasing to a lower resistance (~k?) as force increases.
   • Force Range: Can typically detect forces from a few grams to several kilograms.
4. Features:
   • Thin and Flexible: Can be easily integrated into various applications due to its slim profile and flexibility.
   • Simple Interface: Easy to connect to microcontrollers and other electronics with basic circuitry.
   • Wide Force Range: Capable of detecting a broad range of force levels.

Typical Uses:

• Robotics: Used in robotic grippers to measure the force applied to objects.
• Wearable Devices: Integrated into wearable technology to monitor pressure or force.
• Gaming Controllers: Used in controllers to detect the amount of pressure applied by the user.

Key Benefits:

• Sensitivity: High sensitivity to changes in applied force, making it suitable for precise force measurement.
• Ease of Integration: Simple to connect and use with microcontroller platforms like Arduino.
• Versatility: Suitable for a variety of applications requiring force or pressure sensing.

Example Applications:

• Pressure Mapping: Used in mats or surfaces to detect pressure distribution.
• Musical Instruments: Integrated into electronic musical instruments to detect touch pressure.
• Medical Devices: Used in devices to monitor force applied by patients or users.

How to Use:

1. Connect to Microcontroller:
   • Wiring: Connect one end of the FSR to a power supply (e.g., 5V) and the other end to a voltage divider circuit (typically a fixed resistor to ground and the junction connected to an analog input pin).
2. Read Analog Signal: Use the analog input pin on the microcontroller to read the voltage signal from the FSR.
3. Convert to Force: Convert the analog reading to a force value using a calibration curve or formula specific to the FSR model.
4. Calibrate if Necessary: Perform calibration to improve accuracy, if required.