Provides custom manufacturing of force-sensing resistors (FSR)
Seattle, WA-based GM Nameplate, a manufacturer of overlays, switch technologies, branding components, and more, now also provides custom manufacturing of force-sensing resistors (FSR) as a switch option for electronic devices. FSRs allow a switch to be more than just an on/off device, measuring the pressure in a controlled and predictable way. The switch becomes a sensor of input pressure, as well as an on/off device. Increased pressure causes the resistance between the layers to change in the areas of contact, giving a steady change in input.
As devices get smaller and fewer keys can fit on a device, FSRs may increase in importance in medical, industrial, military, and entertainment applications where varied pressure is needed.
“This switching technology detects physical pressure from stylus or fingertip inputs and even detects data over larger areas, such as detecting the presence of a seat occupant,” says Steve Baker, national sales manager, Intaq products. Now GM can expand its lineup of custom switching options with the addition of FSRs to existing capabilities, including touch screens, elastomeric keypads, and membrane switches.
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