What they look like

This sensor measures the force being exerted on or by an object.

How the sensor works

The Dual-Range Force Sensor uses strain gauge technology to measure force, based on the bending of a beam. Strain gauges attached to both sides of the beam change resistance as the beam bends. The strain gauges are used in a bridge circuit such that a small change in resistance will result in a change in voltage. This voltage change is proportional to the change in force. A switch allows you to select either of two ranges.

Where it can be used

• Studying force and impulse during collisions
• Investigating friction
• Studying simple harmonic motion
• Studying Hooke’s law
• Measuring the force on moving objects
• Measuring the force required to lift a known mass using simple machines