Comprehensive Resistive Strain Gauge Based Force Sensor Apparatus

This Comprehensive Resistive Strain Gauge Based Force Sensor Apparatus is designed for studying the principles of strain measurement, force sensing, and electronic weighing systems. The apparatus features a bidirectional force sensor capable of both tension and compression measurements and incorporates four individually accessible resistive strain gauges. Users can construct and evaluate quarter-bridge, half-bridge, and full-bridge Wheatstone bridge circuits while analyzing their sensitivity, linearity, and output characteristics. An integrated differential amplifier with adjustable gain enables signal conditioning and calibration for accurate force measurement applications. The system provides a complete platform for understanding strain gauge technology and practical sensor instrumentation.

Physics Lab Experiments from Atico Exports.

Experimental Principle and Content

• Study the Operating Principles of Resistive Strain Gauges
• Investigate the Characteristics of Force and Weighing Sensors
• Construct and Analyze Quarter-Bridge Configurations
• Construct and Analyze Half-Bridge Configurations
• Construct and Analyze Full-Bridge Configurations
• Compare the Sensitivity of Different Bridge Circuits
• Measure the Relationship Between Applied Force and Bridge Output Voltage
• Use a Differential Amplifier to Amplify Sensor Signals
• Construct and Calibrate an Electronic Weighing Scale
• Determine Sensor Sensitivity and Calibration Characteristics

Educational Objectives

• Understand the Principles of Strain Measurement Using Resistive Strain Gauges
• Learn the Operation of Wheatstone Bridge Circuits
• Compare Bridge Configurations and Their Performance Characteristics
• Study Signal Amplification and Sensor Calibration Techniques
• Gain Practical Experience in Electronic Weighing System Design
• Develop Skills in Force Measurement and Experimental Data Analysis

Adjustable Regulated Power Supply :

• Output Voltage: 0–14 V Continuously Adjustable
• 3½-Digit Digital Display
• Resolution: 0.01 V
• Short-Circuit Protection

Digital Voltmeter :

• 3½-Digit Digital Display
• Measuring Ranges:
  • ±19.99 mV
  • ±199.9 mV
  • ±1.999 V

Differential Amplifier Power Supply :

• Dual Outputs:
  • ±9 V
  • ±12 V
  • ±15 V

Force Sensor :

• Tension and Compression Type
• Four Individual 350 Ω Strain Gauges
• Maximum Capacity: 5 kg

Weight Trays :

• Two Trays for Tension and Compression Experiments
• Diameter: 14 cm

Calibration Weights :

• 100 g × 1
• 200 g × 2
• 500 g × 1
• 1 kg × 1
• 2 kg × 1

Support Stand :

• Triangular Base
• Height: 33 cm

Standard Supply

• Main Electric Unit × 1
• Mechanical Platform (Including Stand, Sensor, and Weight Trays) × 1
• Calibration Weight Set × 6
• Aviation Cable × 1
• Connection Cable × 1
• Shielded Banana Plug Cables × 2
• Ø4 Banana Plug Cables × 4
• Ø3 Banana Plug Cables × 14
• Power Cord × 1
• User Manual × 1

• Four Individually Accessible Resistive Strain Gauges
• Adjustable Bridge Excitation Voltage
• Simple Structure with Stable Performance
• Hands-On Experimental Learning