Eugene V Svoboda

US Patent:

56612451, Aug 26, 1997

Filed:

Jul 14, 1995

Appl. No.:

8/501821

Inventors:

Eugene V. Svoboda - Saratoga CA
James T. Cook - Antioch CA
Christos D. Cartsonas - Menlo Park CA

Assignee:

SenSym, Incorporated - Milpitas CA

International Classification:

G01L 904
G01L 102
G01L 508

US Classification:

73726

Abstract:

A force sensor assembly incorporates an integrated plunger to provide an economical assembly which can be calibrated and mounted as a single unit. The force sensor assembly utilizes a retainer to movably capture a solid interface within an opening in the retainer. The solid interface includes a flange positioned within the assembly below the retainer opening. The flange dimensions are greater than the retainer opening to retain the solid interface within the assembly. The retainer is attached to a housing body having a gel filled cavity underlying the retainer opening. A diaphragm free floats on the gel within the housing body and contacts the solid interface. The gel transmits a force exerted on the diaphragm from the solid interface to a pressure sensor mounted at the base of the housing body cavity. A ceramic substrate having an integrated resistor network supports the pressure sensor and an amplifier. The pressure sensor and accompanying electronic components provide a conditioned electrical signal corresponding to the force applied to the solid interface.