SENSING FLEXURE DESIGNS AND CONFIGURATIONS

Bending Beam:

The bending beam flexure design consists of a slender beam that bends when subjected to an external force or load. Strain gauges are typically bonded to the surface of the beam to measure the resulting strain. Bending beam configurations are commonly used in load cells, weighing scales, and force measurement applications where the force is applied perpendicular to the beam's axis. They offer good sensitivity to small forces and exhibit low sensitivity to extraneous forces.

Shear Beam:

Shear beam flexure designs involve a rectangular or T-shaped structure that undergoes shear deformation when loaded. Strain gauges are placed on the sides experiencing maximum shear stress. Shear beam configurations are well-suited for measuring loads in a single direction, making them ideal for applications such as platform scales, tank weighing, and material testing machines.

S Beam:

The S beam flexure design resembles the shape of an "S," featuring two bending beams connected at one end. This configuration offers versatility as it can measure both tensile and compressive forces. S beam designs are widely used in tension and compression force measurement applications, including industrial automation, robotics, and material testing.

Column:

Column flexure designs consist of a slender cylindrical or rectangular column that deforms under axial loading. Strain gauges are typically mounted on the surface of the column to measure the strain resulting from the applied force. Column flexures are commonly used in force measurement applications where the force is applied along the axis of the column. They are known for their high sensitivity and are used in force transducers, load cells, and force plates.

Diaphragm:

Diaphragm flexures are thin, circular, or square plates that deform when subjected to pressure or vacuum. Strain gauges are bonded to the surface of the diaphragm to measure the strain resulting from the pressure variation. Diaphragm flexures are commonly used in pressure sensors for applications such as automotive, aerospace, and industrial process monitoring.

To summarize, flexure-based strain gauge sensor designs offer a wide range of applications, each tailored to specific measurement requirements. Whether it's the bending beam for accurate load measurements, the shear beam for single-direction forces, the S beam for versatility, the column for high sensitivity, or the diaphragm for pressure sensing, these designs play a critical role in diverse engineering fields. By accurately measuring mechanical strain, these strain gauge sensor flexure designs enable engineers to optimize designs, ensure safety, and enhance the performance of various mechanical systems and structures.