Sensors can be used independently or in a matrix

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Apr 26, 2006

Free form sensor systems consist of up to 16 individual sensing points that can detect pressures up to 4.21kg/cm2 coupled with simple electronics and a USB interface.

Sensor Products has expanded its Tactilus line of dynamic electronic pressure mapping systems with the introduction of free form sensor systems.

The systems consist of up to 16 individual sensing points that can detect pressures up to 4.21kg/cm2 coupled with simple electronics and a USB interface.

These sensors can be used independently or assembled in a matrix to allow the user the flexibility to move from one application to the next without the need for a new system.

The Free Form sensor systems are for diverse applications such as biomechanics, clamping, door seals, ergonomics, heat seals, LCD bonding, nips, presses, switches and lamination.

In most applications, engineers need a versatile off-the-shelf tool that can profile equipment for R and D, design, quality control, troubleshooting and maintenance processes.

The software allows for direct pressure readings without the need for calibration and pressure versus time tracking, which can allow not only a reading of pressure but actual real-time analysis of two contacting surfaces.

The software is also customisable to display matrix configurations defined by the client.

This lets the user provide a display for the application and enables pressure interpolation between the points.

Because of the many different sizes of sensors and pressure ranges, the company offers products for various applications based on the same Tactilus software.

"These new Free Form sensing points are unique because of their versatility and most importantly, their functionality", said Product Manager Carlos Ruiz.

"Engineers now have a viable and extremely adaptable technology for measuring pressure quickly, accurately and economically".

The sensing systems are multi-channel tactile surface sensing points that come equipped with all components necessary to collect data for comprehensive analysis, including up to 16 individual sensors that are customisable from 1 by 1mm, electronics controller and Windows-based Tactilus software.

The sensors are inexpensive and can be sold separately to provide the client with various types and means of interfacing existing equipment with new technology.

The systems include robust sensors that can endure thousands of uses with consistent repeatability, and are resistant to electromagnetic noise, temperature and humidity fluctuations.

Running on a standard laptop computer, the full-scale software allows users to customise for 2D and 3D imaging, region-of-interest viewing, longitudinal and latitudinal analysis, graphical displays of data in bar, pressure versus time, line scan, histogram and isobar charts, statistical analysis of average, minimum and maximum pressures, and total force over any selected area.

The data may also be exported to virtually any third party software.

The sensors are conformable to highly curvaceous surfaces and can be used in invasive and intolerant environments.