Product Description & Technical Details
Product Description
The SpectraSymbol 2.2" Flex Sensor is a specialized analog sensor that changes its electrical resistance based on the degree of bend or deflection. As the sensor is curved, the internal resistive carbon traces are stretched, causing the resistance across the terminals to increase proportionally. This technology is the industry standard for capturing physical movement in a digital format. It is widely used in haptic feedback systems, gait analysis, and "Smart Glove" applications where precise tracking of finger or joint movement is required.
Key Highlights
Linear & Predictable Response: The resistance increases linearly with the bend angle, allowing for straightforward calibration and integration into software logic.
Low Profile Construction: Its paper-thin design (less than 0.5mm) allows it to be integrated into fabric, wearable gear, or tight mechanical joints without adding bulk.
High Durability: Engineered to withstand over 1 million bends, making it suitable for high-wear applications like VR gloves and industrial grippers.
Simple 2-Wire Interface: Operates like a variable resistor (rheostat), requiring only a basic voltage divider circuit to interface with any microcontroller analog pin.
Industrial Build Quality: Constructed on a flexible Polyamide (Kapton) substrate, providing excellent thermal stability and resistance to chemicals.
Technical Specifications
Resistance Tolerance: ±30%
Operating Temperature: -35°C to +80°C
Power Rating: 0.5 Watts continuous
Pin Pitch: 0.1" (2.54mm) — breadboard compatible
Bend Range: 0 to 180 degrees (one direction only)
Prototyping & Installation Tip
The most vulnerable part of a flex sensor is the transition point where the rigid pins meet the flexible sensor body. To prevent premature failure, it is highly recommended to reinforce this area with heat-shrink tubing or a rigid backing to ensure the bend occurs only along the active sensing area. To read the data, use a 10k $\Omega$ fixed resistor as part of a voltage divider. This allows you to measure the changing voltage at the junction via an Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) on your microcontroller.
Note: This product is the 2.2" Flex Sensor ONLY. Mounting adhesives, resistors, and microcontrollers are sold separately. Product images are for illustration purposes only.