FlexiForce FAQs

Tekscan, Inc, 307 West First Street, South Boston, MA 02127-1309. Tel: [phone].464.4500 Fax: [phone]
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USING A PUCK OR SHIM
What is a puck/shim and do I need to use it?
A puck, or shim, is an object placed between the sensing area and load (like cheese between two pieces of bread) to
ensure that the sensor captures 100% of the applied load if the contacting surface is larger than the sensor diameter and to
reduce high pressure for point load applications. The applied pressure should be between 1 and 10,000 PSI. If the applied
force is small, e.g. 30 grams, a puck should be used to reduce the area to achieve at least 1 PSI. For applied loads that are
high but have a very small area, a puck should be used to reduce PSI to below 10,000. For best results, the loaded area or
puck should be between 70% (a diameter of 0.263”, or area of 0.077in
2
) and 100% of the sensing area but can be reduced
to achieve results as described above. Plastic pucks are recommended, as they are pliable but not too soft.
What material is best to use?
Plastic is recommended, but you can use metal and rubber as well. The material used should not induce a large shear force
on the sensor when a normal load is applied.
How rough can the load surface be?
Use your best judgment, keeping in mind that a sharp point on the surface would likely puncture the sensor.
What surface is best to use underneath the sensor?
A flat, smooth surface is ideal.