Suppose I want wo measure how strong someone (or somthing) pulls on a rope, i.e. I want to measure the tension (=dragging) force on the rope.
The pulling would come from only one direction.
I assume a maximum force of let´s say about 1000N (could be more, but let´s forget about the exact range for now).
What would be a reasonably priced method?
I searched a bit on the web and found lots of force sensors which should do the job, just one example out of many would be , e.g.
https://www.burster.de/de/produkte/p/detail/8417/
Now, as far as I can see, this part has "just" some resistance strain gauge(s?) with a wheatsone bridge incorporated. Nevertheless, It is priced at about 800 EUR per piece, something I cannot afford.
I thought about building an own setup, i.e. sticking discrete strain wire gauges to some kind of cylinder. Of course the question arises which material to use for the cyclinder.
Can someone share experiences in building "custom" strain gauges for such a scenario?
Maybe resistance strain gauges are even a bad idea, maybe an LVDT (Linear Variable Differential Transformer) in combination with a spring would be better suited?
EDIT: The solution should be small enough to be integrated in some kind of handheld device (let´s assume a box of 20 x 5 cm) Environmental protection such as IP5X is not needed since ideally, the solution can get some kind of enclosure later on.
Thanks!
Best Answer
If you don't wish to homebrew your own transducer, look into "strain type load cells". These are typically found in S and Z type configurations. An example of an S type cell that is available for $130 USD can be found here.
You will have to add your own means of mechanically fastening the rope ends to the cell but most come with tapped holes for easy attachment of eye bolts or similar.