Description
The Flex Sensor 4.5 (10KΩ) is a passive variable-resistor bend sensor manufactured in China as a cost-effective alternative to the original Spectra Symbol part. It uses a thin, flexible substrate coated with a conductive ink layer. When straight, the resistance is approximately 10KΩ. When bent away from the ink side (text on the inside of the bend), the conductive particles spread apart, increasing resistance significantly—up to 60K–110KΩ at full bend according to Chinese supplier data .
The sensor is non-polarized—the two terminals are interchangeable . It is used in a voltage divider with a fixed resistor (typically 10KΩ or 47KΩ) to convert the resistance change into a voltage readable by an Arduino or other microcontroller ADC . Common applications include data gloves, finger bend detection, robotic grippers, and motion capture.
The 4.5″ (114mm) active length offers more sensing area than the 2.2″ variant, making it suitable 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 tolerance is ±30%, and individual sensors vary, so per-sensor calibration is mandatory for meaningful angle measurements .
Features
-
10KΩ Flat Resistance: Standard baseline for Arduino voltage divider calculations .
-
High Bend Resistance (60K–110KΩ): Larger resistance swing than the original Spectra Symbol part, potentially offering better resolution at high bend angles .
-
Non-Polarized Two-Terminal Design: Terminals are interchangeable; no polarity concerns .
-
Thin and Flexible: ≤0.43mm profile, suitable for wearable applications .
-
Long Life Cycle: Rated for over 1 million bends .
-
Wide Temperature Range: -35°C to +80°C .
-
Breadboard-Friendly Tabs: 0.1″ (2.54mm) spacing for easy prototyping .
-
Cost-Effective Alternative: Lower price point than the original Spectra Symbol sensor.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification (Chinese-made variant) |
|---|---|
| Active Length | 4.5″ (114mm) |
| Flat Resistance | 10KΩ |
| Bend Resistance | 60K–110KΩ (Chinese supplier data) |
| Resistance Tolerance | ±30% |
| Power Rating | 0.5W continuous; 1W peak |
| Life Cycle | >1 million bends |
| Thickness | ≤1mm |
| Operating Temperature | -35°C to +80°C |
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.