A Transducer for Simultaneously Measuring Forces Normal to and Parallel to Surfaces

Abstract

A transducer for measuring interface loads was fabricated, characterized, and demonstrated by measuring coefficient of friction. It is composed of a segmented body supported on normal force and shear force piezoelectric sensors. The transducer can measure forces normal to and parallel to its surface simultaneously. It is suitable for inclusion into tribological interfaces for characterization of friction in laboratory apparatus or monitoring of forces in machines for machine and process control.