Abstract: A force sensor and method for making same. A pair of backing sheets having confronting surfaces are substantially covered with conductive ink to form a pair of conductive layers. At least one of the conductive layers is coated with a semiconductive ink. The backing sheets are secured to each other with an interposed layer of non-conductive or insulative material, such as adhesive. The layer of non-conductive material is deposited in a pattern and defines at least one sensing area. Only when orthogonal force is exerted against the backing sheets at a location corresponding to the sensing area will current flow between the conductive layers.

Abstract: A thin film sensing cell having an internal electrical lead crossover to provide electrical connections to the sensing cell at the same surface. In one form, the sensing cell comprises a bottom backing sheet having upper and lower surfaces, a first conductive pattern having a first portion deposited on the upper surface of the bottom backing sheet, with a first opening extending through the sheet and through the first portion of the conductive pattern, and a second opening extending through the sheet at a location displaced outwardly of the first conductive pattern. A second conductive pattern having first and second spaced portions is deposited on a lower surface of a top backing sheet. The top and bottom backing sheets are aligned such that the first portions are in confronting relationship, and the first and second conductive portions are electrically accessible, respectively, through the first and second openings.

Abstract: A thin film force sensor designed to sense application of a force over a wide area. In one embodiment, a large area sensing cell is provided that comprises a first planar electrode configured as a perimetric conductive portion circumscribing at least one additional perimetric conductive portion, with the conductive portions electrically connected together through at least one conductive path and a second planar electrode configured as a perimetric conductive portion circumscribing at least one additional perimetric conductive portion, with the conductive portions electrically connected together through at least one conductive path. The second planar electrode confronts the first planar electrode, with a pressure sensitive resistive material interposed between the first planar electrode and the second planar electrode.

Abstract: A steering wheel having a pressure-sensitive horn activator integrated with an airbag assembly. The horn activator is configured for quick activation, while avoiding accidental activation due to changes in ambient temperatures and pressures.

Abstract: A load washer comprising a pair of thin metal washers between which a contact sensor is positioned. The contact sensor includes pairs of confronting electrodes at a plurality of spaced zones with a pressure sensitive resistive material between each pair, which, under pressure, provide an indication of the force applied to the load washer.

Abstract: A calibration fixture for a contact sensor for applying a uniform pressure to each contact sensor intersection and a method of using the fixture. The fixture includes a first plate against which a contact sensor is supported, a second plate confronting the first plate and spaced therefrom, an annular sealing member supported on the second plate, a bladder disposed between the sealing member and the second plate to define a fluid pressure chamber circumscribed by the sealing member, a frame for holding the first and second plates in their confronting relationship, and a pressurized fluid entry passage extending through the second plate and communicating with the pressure chamber.

Abstract: A contact sensor formed of a pair of thin flexible insulating sheets and having a plurality of elongate flexible leads, each connected to a single terminal and having an independent sensing pad positionable via the elongate flexible leads at separate selected locations between a pair of confronting surfaces to separately and independently sense the loads applied at the separate selected locations.