FUTEK will fully design and manufacture a sensor capable of measuring forces in and about each axis. The unit will measure forces up to 300 Newton's in the principle axes and measure moment forces about each axis up to 50 Newton meters. The overall design will be optimized for a multitude of applications in many different environments. As a result, the unit is capable of surviving temperatures ranging from -135oC and 125oC and will remain operable within specification between -80oC and 70oC. In addition, the sensor will be designed to accommodate vacuum conditions and all components will be covered with a protective coating. To further improve the unit, the size and weight has been minimized, making the sensor more ideal for dynamic applications and less obtrusive in assembly design. During the phase 1 contract, FUTEK has developed two operating prototypes to prove concept and feasibility. Also, different adhesives and coatings have been successfully tested beyond the survival temperatures expected in most applications. However, a continuation into phase 2 will be necessary to optimize the final design and meet all specifications and requirements. The design will be optimized to support specified loads with an acceptable factor of safety, while components are further researched and selected. In addition, the manufacturability and market of the product will be analyzed and assessed in order to commercialize such an advanced sensor.
