DESCRIPTION
The FSS Series Force Sensor provides precise, reliable force
sensing performance in a compact, commercial-grade package
at a cost effective price. The sensor features a proven sensing
technology that uses a specialized piezoresistive,
micromachined silicon sensing element. The low power,
unamplified, uncompensated Wheatstone bridge circuit design
provides inherently stable mV outputs over the force range.
Force sensors operate on the principle that the resistance of
silicon-implanted piezoresistors will increase when the
resistors flex under any applied force. The sensor concentrates
force from the application, through the stainless steel ball,
directly to the silicon-sensing element. The amount of
resistance changes in proportion to the amount of force being
applied. This change in circuit resistance results in a
corresponding mV output level change.
The sensor package design incorporates patented modular
construction. The use of innovative elastomeric technology and
engineered molded plastics results in overforce capacities of
up to three times the rated force. The stainless steel ball
provides excellent mechanical stability and is adaptable to a
variety of applications.
The FSS Series Sensor delivered 20 million operations in
Mean Cycles to Failure (MCTF) reliability testing at 50°C
[122°F]. This test determines the number of possible sensor
operations at full scale until failure.
RoHS-compliant materials meet Directive 2002/95/EC
allows use in industries requiring regulation compliance
Low deflection (approx. 30 µm typical at full scale) helps
reduce measurement error
Direct mechanical coupling of the actuation ball to the
sense element reduces coupling errors and keeps
mechanical hysteresis to a minimum
Product rating of 20 million MCTF at 25 °C [77 °F], subject
to application variation, provides for consistent output over
time and reduces repairs or replacements
Small size minimizes space on the printed circuit board
(PCB)
Provides enhanced sensitivity without compromising
signal integrity, resulting in low system noise and reducing
measurement errors
Electrically ratiometric output accommodates supply
voltage variations, leading to low ratiometricity error
Low voltage supply allows for use in many battery
powered applications
High resistance to electrostatic discharge (ESD) meets
ESD Sensitivity Classification Level 3B (8 KV), reducing
special handling during assembly
Sensor output has low sensitivity to many mounting
stresses
Medical
Infusion pumps
Ambulatory non-invasive pumps
Occlusion detection
Kidney dialysis machines
Enteral pumps
Industrial
Load and compression sensing
Variable tension control
Robotic end-effectors
Wire bonding equipment