Just prototyped an attachment to a micro-servo that allows for an analog force signal from the shaft to sent to a micro-controller. Motivation for this attachment was to have the tension of wire passing through a pulley connected to this attachment detected and used for a force feedback control system. Could also be used to detect the force exerted on the motor shaft itself not just as part of a pulley which would be useful in robot hand gripper applications.
Would anyone be interested in using a servo motor like this at a reasonable price point (dollar or so higher than a typical servo) in their projects granted the form factor was the same?
The sensor providing the analog force signal is disconnected in the picture above however this is the setup and the idea is to eventually have the add-on piece embedded within the servo casing itself.
Hey there @DevinC,
Just a little suggestion:
Perhaps adding images, details or a video that demonstrate the functionalities you’re suggesting would help people understand more
p.s. Welcome
Like you said, if you want it to be easily adopted, it would need to retain the standard servo shape, and not require more complexity to mount.
To confirm I understand correctly: The blue attachment to the servo spline acts as a pulley system for the wire, which has a weight at the end? The radius of the pulley multiplied by the known force acting on the wire provides the torque measurement?
Is the force you are measuring rotational force or side-load force? What is the range and resolution? What is the signal? 0 to 5V? A resistance? or something else?
Have you managed to fit into the case yet?
