Download Flexpoint Brochure LTR - Flexpoint Sensor Systems

THEN...OR NOW?
The thin, flexible BEND SENSOR® from Flexpoint
offers limitless possibilities.
BEND SENSOR Goes Global
BEND SENSOR offers a superior solution for applications that require
accurate measurement and sensing of deflection, acceleration, and
range of motion. Global market opportunities include automotive,
medical, industrial controls, health and fitness, security, computer
peripherals, aerospace, transportation and consumer products.
Specific applications include:
• Virtual Reality glove or suit
• Security systems
• Robotics
• Machine controls
• Physical rehab equipment
• Exercise equipment
• Joy sticks
• Switches
• Toys
• Household appliances
No Moving Parts
BEND SENSOR'S one-piece construction contains no moving or
mechanical components that abrade or wear. Without mechanical
swiping or rubbing, BEND SENSOR is inaudible in operation, offering
engineers new options in design and manufacture. BEND SENSOR
also:
• Provides greater accuracy than traditional potentiometers.
• Is not prone to degradation through mechanical contact, so it has a
longer life than many competing sensors.
• Eliminates repeated system breakdown due to mechanical failure, so
it is more reliable and less expensive to system operations.
• Can be protected to operate in harsh environments.
• Operates in a large temperature range.
• Comes backed by a core of industry savvy Engineers to handle any
technical need.
Flexpoint Custom Engineering
Flexpoint is the worldwide leader developing and manufacturing
BEND SENSOR technology. Our experienced engineers can develop
a custom sensing system to fit your application. Alternatively, you
can choose a product from our standard line of BEND SENSORS.
So whether you would like us to send samples or talk about your
application, give us a call. We’re ready to put our ideas and our
technology to work for you.
Diversity of Applications
Airbags aren’t the only application suited for this unique sensor. The extremely thin and flexible BEND
SENSOR was initially used in a virtual reality glove providing analog feedback of finger movements.
Marketed by one of the world’s largest toy makers, the interactive glove became a major consumer
success and the first of several interactive toys to use Flexpoint’s BEND SENSOR technology.
Larry Killgallon, President of the Ohio Art Company, the maker of “Etch -a-Sketch,” is enthusiastic
about future applications of BEND SENSOR for the toy industry: “BEND SENSOR HAS THE ABILITY TO GIVE
TOYS A NERVOUS SYSTEM.
BEND SENSOR IS GOING TO REVOLUTIONIZE THE CONCEPT OF INTERACTIVE TOYS,
AND WE ARE THRILLED TO BE LEADING THE INDUSTRY WITH THIS UNIQUE TECHNOLOGY.”
The Thin Revolution In Variable Resistors
Flexpoint sets a new standard in variable resistors with BEND
SENSOR®, a technological breakthrough that reduces the dimensions
of typical sensor devices by as much as 90%. This ultra-thin flexible
plastic film is the lightest, most robust and cost-effective variable
resistor in the world. Successfully developed for the automotive
industry, BEND SENSOR is now available for a range of applications
that require mechanical control. Its ability to measure changes
in deflection make it possible to determine flow, movement and
pattern. BEND SENSOR promises virtually unlimited uses in medical,
industrial controls, automotive and consumer markets.
A Sensor That Makes “Smart” Decisions
The force behind an automobile airbag can sometimes be deadly
to children and small adults. Flexpoint has developed an Occupant
Detection System with BEND SENSOR at its heart. By automatically
sizing up a car’s passenger, this life saving device will make a
“smart” decision to deploy or suppress the airbag in the event of
an accident.
Unique Bend Sensor Technology
BEND SENSOR consists of a single thin (.005”), flexible plastic film
coated with a proprietary coating. This coating can also be used
on other materials such as metals. When the sensor is bent, the
coating separates into many micro cracks that open and close to
the degree the sensor is bent. The opening and closing of cracks
causes a measurable change in resistance. In short, BEND SENSOR is
a variable resistor that changes as it is bent. Electronic systems
connect to the sensor and measure with fine detail the amount
of bending or movement that occurs. The single layer design
eliminates many of the problems associated with conventional
sensors such as dust, dirt, liquids, and heat and pressure effects.
The BEND SENSOR product allows for the measurement of mechanical
movement, air flow, water flow, or even vibration. In addition, it has
been tested to over 35 million cycles without failure. It can be used
as a range of motion sensor, or as a very durable, very reliable
switch in most harsh environments.
FLEXPOINT
flexible sensor systems
Flexpoint Sensor Systems, Inc.
E-mail: info@flexpoint.com
Phone: 801-568-5111 • Toll Free: 866-766-3539 • Fax: 801-568-2405
www.flexpoint.com
sales@flexpoint.com
techsupport@flexpoint.com
Bend Sensor is a registered trademark of Flexpoint, Inc. All other company
products and service names are the trademarks or service marks of their
respective holders.
1999, Flexpoint, Inc. All rights reserved.