Flex Sensor (2.2 Inch)

Overview – Flex Sensor (2.2 Inch)

The Flex Sensor (2.2 Inch) is a high-sensitivity bending sensor that converts physical flex into a measurable change in resistance. Designed for reliable, repeatable measurements, this compact sensor is ideal for wearable electronics, robotics, medical motion monitoring, gaming input and interactive musical controllers. Its simple resistance-based analog output makes it easy to integrate with Arduino, Raspberry Pi analog-to-digital converters and other microcontrollers.

Key Features

• High sensitivity to bending in one direction for accurate motion detection
• Durable construction to withstand repeated flex cycles
• Simple analog output – reads as resistance change across a 2-pin connector
• Compact 2.2-inch (55.88 mm) length – fits small or wearable projects
• Wide operating temperature range for indoor and outdoor use

Specifications

• Length: 2.2 inches (55.88 mm)
• Thickness: Approximately 0.43 mm
• Resistance Range: ~10 KΩ (flat) to 20 KΩ – 30 KΩ (bent to 180 degrees)
• Operating Voltage: 0 V to 5 V (reads as part of a voltage divider)
• Temperature Range: -35°C to +80°C
• Connector Type: 2-pin header

Applications

• Wearable Technology: Finger, wrist, elbow or knee motion sensing for gesture control and fitness trackers
• Robotics: Joint angle sensing, gripper position feedback, and arm motion monitoring
• Medical Devices: Prosthetics, rehabilitation tools and physical therapy motion monitoring
• Gaming and Controllers: Motion-sensitive inputs for interactive gaming and custom controllers
• Musical Instruments: Motion-triggered effects and expressive control in electronic instruments

Integration and Wiring

The Flex Sensor (2.2 Inch) outputs a variable resistance. To read it with most microcontrollers, use it as part of a voltage divider. The sensor and a fixed resistor form two legs of the divider and the midpoint is connected to an analog input.

Recommended Voltage Divider

• Use a fixed resistor near the sensor’s flat resistance – typically a 10 KΩ resistor works well.
• Power the divider from 3.3 V or 5 V depending on your microcontroller’s ADC range. Do not exceed 5 V.
• Connect sensor to Vcc and the fixed resistor to ground, then read the midpoint with an analog input.

Reading with Arduino

Example wiring and read approach:

// Connect sensor and 10K resistor as a voltage divider
// Sensor to 5V -> midpoint -> A0 -> resistor to GND
int sensorPin = A0;
void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600);
}
void loop() {
  int val = analogRead(sensorPin);
  Serial.println(val);
  delay(200);
}

Mounting, Calibration and Tips

• Mount the sensor flat at one end and allow free flex at the other for consistent readings.
• Avoid sharp bends and creasing – the sensor is durable but sharp folds reduce life and accuracy.
• Calibrate by recording ADC values at flat and at known bend angles to map resistance to degrees.
• Use filtering or averaging in software to smooth out jitter in analog readings.
• Protect contacts from moisture and abrasion in wearable or outdoor applications.

Why Choose the Flex Sensor (2.2 Inch)

Its compact size, reliable resistance-based output and robust construction make the Flex Sensor (2.2 Inch) a practical choice for prototypes and production: from quick Arduino experiments to embedded wearable systems and medical monitoring devices. The 2-pin header and standard resistance range simplify integration and troubleshooting.

Note: Images are for illustration purposes only.