Description
The Flex 4.5 Curvature Sensor is a thin, flexible variable resistor that changes resistance when bent. The sensing element is a conductive ink layer printed on a flexible substrate. When the sensor is straight, the conductive particles are closely packed, giving low resistance. When bent away from the ink side (text on the inside of the bend), the particles spread apart, increasing resistance proportionally to the bend angle .
The sensor is non-polarized—the two terminals are interchangeable . It is used in a voltage divider with a fixed resistor (typically 10 kΩ or 15 kΩ) to convert the resistance change into a voltage that an Arduino or other microcontroller can read via its ADC . Common applications include data gloves, finger bend detection, robotic grippers, and motion capture .
The 4.5″ (112.24 mm) length is the longer variant in the Spectra Symbol lineup, offering more sensing area for larger joints or multi-joint applications. The sensor has a rated life cycle of over 1 million bends and operates from -35°C to +80°C .
Critical limitations: This is a bare sensor, not a module—it requires a voltage divider and ADC to function. The sensor is fragile at the pinned base—bending or stressing the non-sensing end will damage it . The resistance-to-angle relationship is non-linear, and the resistance tolerance is ±30%, so per-sensor calibration is mandatory for meaningful angle measurements .
Features
-
4.5″ (112.24 mm) Active Length: Longer sensing area for larger joints and multi-joint applications .
-
Variable Resistance Output: Resistance increases with bend angle; simple voltage divider interface .
-
Non-Polarized Two-Terminal Design: Terminals are interchangeable; no polarity concerns .
-
Thin and Flexible: ≤0.43 mm profile, 6.35 mm width, suitable for wearable applications .
-
Long Life Cycle: Rated for over 1 million bends .
-
Wide Temperature Range: -35°C to +80°C .
-
Breadboard-Friendly Connector: 0.1″ (2.54 mm) pin spacing .
-
Proven Technology: Based on Spectra Symbol’s patented design, used in the Nintendo Power Glove .
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification (verify your stock) |
|---|---|
| Active Length | 4.5″ (112.24 mm) |
| Flat Resistance | 10 kΩ nominal; tolerance ±30% |
| Bent Resistance | Up to 5× flat (DigiKey); 60–110 kΩ at 180° pinch (datasheet) |
| Resistance Tolerance | ±30% |
| Power Rating | 0.5 W continuous; 1 W peak |
| Life Cycle | >1 million bends |
| Thickness | ≤0.43 mm |
| Operating Temperature | -35°C to +80°C |
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.