The function of a basic resistive pressure sensor is to measure and convert the applied pressure into a corresponding electrical resistance. These sensors are also known as resistive pressure transducers or pressure-sensitive resistors. They are widely used in various applications to monitor and control pressure levels in different systems.
The basic structure of a resistive pressure sensor typically consists of a flexible diaphragm or membrane that deforms under the influence of applied pressure. This diaphragm is made of a material with good mechanical flexibility and electrical conductivity, such as a semiconductor or a conductive polymer. As the pressure changes, the diaphragm flexes, causing its dimensions (thickness and area) to alter, which, in turn, changes its electrical resistance.
When a constant current is passed through the sensor, the resistance of the diaphragm changes proportionally with the pressure applied. The resistance change is then measured using appropriate electronic circuits, which convert it into an electrical signal, such as voltage or current, that represents the pressure magnitude.
The electrical output signal can be further processed by microcontrollers, analog-to-digital converters (ADCs), or other control systems for data display, recording, or control purposes. By measuring the resistance, the pressure sensor can determine the pressure value within a system accurately.
Resistive pressure sensors are commonly used in various applications, including automotive systems (e.g., tire pressure monitoring), industrial automation, medical devices, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), and consumer electronics, among others, where monitoring and control of pressure are essential.