Development of a Force Sensing Resistor (FSR) from Conductive Film for Applications in Physical Therapy
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Abstract
This research focuses on the development and performance evaluation of a Force Sensing Resistor (FSR) based on conductive films for applications in Physical Therapy. Two types of conductive films, Treee MD30-60 and Mommy Sensitive, were tested against reference force values from a Digital Force Gauge (DFG50) under a standard force range of 0 - 60 Newtons. The experiments were conducted on foam substrates with two different elasticity coefficients (soft and hard foam), which functioned as a supportive base to distribute pressure and simulate the elasticity of muscle layers. The statistical data analysis used included the determination of Mean, Standard Deviation (SD), response characteristics analysis, and the Coefficient of Variation (CV) to evaluate the stability and accuracy of the sensors. The results revealed that the Treee MD30-60 film was the most suitable candidate, capable of measuring force across the 0 - 60 N range. It exhibited a non-linear response but demonstrated good repeatability, with a minimum Coefficient of Variation (CV) of 7.98%. Conversely, the Mommy Sensitive film failed to respond effectively on flexible surfaces. Consequently, the researchers utilized the Treee MD30-60 film to develop a 4-point pressure sensing prototype system, processed by an Arduino Mega 2560 microcontroller, capable of displaying real-time force values in Newtons. This prototype demonstrates significant potential for further development into a cost-effective engineering measurement tool and is adaptable for research or Physical Therapy pressure measurement systems requiring high precision.
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