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The Manufacturing of Force Sensor Resistors

One of the breakthroughs of modern technology, Force Sensor Resistors or FSRs are used in many applications. From keyboards to musical instruments to portable devices in which the output has to be calibrated and produced according to the applied pressure, without FSRs many of the dynamic interactions that we have with our technology units would not exist.

How Do Force Sensor Resistors Work? 

The FSR produces a variable electrical output as force and pressure are applied. It can do this in two ways. One method relies on the printed ink layer compressing, and changing conductivity as force and pressure are applied. The active layer in this design is a low conductivity printed polymer ink, applied in different thicknesses, or in varying patterns to produce the desired result. A second approach is similar to a membrane switch construction, where a highly conductive layer mates with a less conductive one.  As the two surfaces meet, varying amounts of surface area make contact with each other in relation to the force applied.

General Construction:

–          A base substrate layer-usually 75-175 microns.
–          A printed conducting layer-can be minimally or highly conductive.
–          An adhesive/bonding layer-can be full or zoned, depending on sensor design.
–          A top substrate layer- usually 75-175 microns.

The construction described above produces variable resistance values which in turn are used to trigger different response to the receiving electronics. This capability allows design and electrical engineers to create more sophisticated, intuitive, and responsive systems for monitoring, alerting, or protecting the user or the equipment it controls.

Sensor Resistors Work

Techprint is an ISO 9001 certified market leader that brings only the best to its customers. We have made a name for ourselves manufacturing products as per custom requirements. To this end we have acquired considerable prowess in the sector of manufacturing top notch FSRs, testing them in house for faults and performance and then using them in keyboards and membrane switches for a tactile experience that is unparalleled.

Contact us here to learn more about our FSR capabilities, and all of the services we offer.  Be sure to follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for the latest company news and information.

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