Hoffmann + Krippner’s P-DMS Polymer Strain Gage is a compact and cost-effective solution for measuring pressure, designed for medical, industrial, automotive, military and consumer electronics applications. Extremely sensitive to slight pressures, it is based on the company’s patented sensor paste technology which can be printed onto a PCB board. A small deformation to the paste generates a change of its electrical resistance which can be used for measurement, input and control for a wide range of applications.
Requiring no moving parts, this simple device can be very accurate and long lasting. As the strain gage can be directly printed on the application’s control board, it does not need to be connected by wires. This enables compact and affordable designs, as well as eliminating the failure points of wire failure and corrosion. It also eliminates electrical sparking as the key contacts come together.
Interesting applications include musical instruments such as a piano keys and electric guitars, control switches for DJ audio mixing gear, inside shoes to measure pressure distribution as someone stands or walks, for use in “silent” keyboards (no key clacking), inventory control for grocery store shelves and vending machines, automotive touch screens and function activators, as well as hazardous area applications where a tiny spark from keys closing an electrical circuit could set off a fire or an explosion. Hoffmann + Krippner offers in-house development, design and manufacturing expertise to customize the gage design and specifications to customer requirements. For more information, visit http://www.hoffmann-krippner.com.
H+K’s printed strain gauge provides a reliable, cost-effective solution for many pressure-sensing applications. Photo courtesy of Hoffmann + Krippner
