Flex sensors
Prototype flex sensors for wearables and medical devices
A flex sensor, also known as a bend or flexion sensor, is a resistive device that changes its electrical resistance based on the degree of curvature. Common in wearable electronics, rehabilitation tools, and human-machine interfaces (HMI), flex sensors play a foundational role in gesture recognition [1].
Typically, flex sensors are constructed with conductive material, such as carbon or metal-based inks, on a flexible substrate. When straight, conductive particles are closer together, offering a certain baseline resistance. When bent, particles spread further apart, increasing the path length for electrical current, and thereby, increasing resistance.
- Healthcare
- Smart textiles
- Consumer electronics
- Automotive
- Sensors
- Polymer-based: Polyvinylchloride (PVC), polypropylene (PP)
- Elastic polymers: Silicone rubber, polyurethane (PU) rubber
- Polyester: Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN)
- Fabric: Cotton, nylon, spandex
Our white papers
Connecting Flexible and Stretchable Substrates to Printed Circuit Boards
Learn more about methods for connecting flexible/stretchable substrates to rigid PCBs, including ZIF, crimp, snap, IDC connectors, and Z-axis tape for seamless integration in wearables, sensors, and flexible electronics.
