SOFTPOT
Low Form-factor, Low Cost, Low Design Requirements
The SoftPot potentiometer is a linear sensing device used for tracking position and acquiring the preferred output in a variety of applications. It comes in lengths from 10mm to 2000mm and offers a low form factor of less than 0.5mm, making it the thinnest linear sensor available today.
The SoftPot works in multiple configurations, such as linear, serpentine, and elliptical. It operates in temperatures ranging from -45°C to 50°C and is ideal for products that need a sealed sensor with a tight form factor. It’s no wonder it became a popular option for clients in the medical, dental, and robotics industry. The SofPot is also a versatile sensor that can operate by human touch. It can provide the desired linear output regardless of the shape of the product it’s attached to.
How it Works?
In simple terms, the SoftPot membrane potentiometer is a resistive element, which comprises a conductive resistor, a sealed encasement and a simple wiper assembly. A membrane potentiometer can also function as a voltage divider.
The SoftPot is a three-wire system with two resistive output channels and an electrical collector channel.
By pressing a wiper down onto the top circuit the SoftPot produces the desired electrical output.
The “wiper” is a non-conductive mechanism that depresses the top circuit actuating the potentiometer from the outside of the element. The top and bottom circuits are separated by 0.15mm (0.006″) of spacer adhesive build-up and contact between the circuit occurs by pressure (usually 1-3 Newtons) from the wiper on the top circuit, pushing down until the top circuit connects with the bottom circuit to create a potentiometric output.
The construction of the wiper design can adapt to any application because most materials can serve as the wiper: plastics, metals, sliders, rollers, wheels, etc. Also, the SoftPot can also be manually (hand) actuated.
