The Shimmer Strain Gauge module allows for strain (tensile and compressive) and load cell data acquisition for force measurement free from wired constraints.

*Must be connected to the Shimmer platform to be operational

Description

The Shimmer Strain Gauge expansion module contains a bridge amplifier, excitation source, and connector or wire soldering points enabling force measurement with Shimmer. Ideal for all load, weight, force, torque, and pressure measurements through the connection of a user-supplied strain gauge based bridge sensors / load cell. The Strain Gauge module detects variance in resistance values when force is applied to the load cell. The small, lightweight, wearable form factor allows for measurements free from wired constraints to allow for natural range of motion, and measurement outside of a dedicated lab setting. See how the Strain Gauge module is connected to the Shimmer platform.

Technical Overview

• Low Gain output provides biopolar pre-amplification
• High Gain output provides additional 3x gain for unipolar load cells
• The Excitation source and LED are software controlled
• Kit includes a high quality 3.5mm jack that plugs into the Shimmer, which can be used to wire/connect user supplied load cell

Features & Benefits

Real-time Data Collection, Display, and Storage

• Enables force measurement, converts to digital format, and can stream directly to a host device without the need for an intermediate receiving unit.
• Provides real-time physiological data collection and streaming to a host PC for real-time display and storage
• Real-time LabVIEW drivers and support library for application specific analysis and software interface development

Lightweight, Wearable Unit

• Designed to be wearable, the Shimmer Strain Gauge addresses challenges of mobility and provides a high-quality, scientifically reliable data as either a wireless transmitter or an autonomous data-logger
• Free from wired constraints, the Shimmer Strain Gauge provides a comfortable and distress free solution for athletes, children, elderly and patients with a disability
• The small size and lightweight (28g) design allows the unit to be worn with full range of motion during all types of tasks or exercises, without effecting their movement or motor pattern.

Reliable System

• Pre-amplification can be co-located with load cell to avoid cable losses and interference
• Floating measurement provides best for subject safety
• Meets EU consumer health and safety requirements for medical equipment

Adaptability (Wired vs. Wireless)

• Offers greater ergonomic value than wired units
• Easily combine Strain Gauge data with Shimmer’s integrated accelerometer for greater contextual information
• Easily combine Strain Gauge data with the full range of Shimmer Biophysical, Kinematic and Ambient sensor modules

Standard Shimmer Functionality

• MSP430 microcontroller (8MHz, 16 Bit), Bluetooth – RN-42, 802.15.4 radio - TI CC2420, 12-Bit analog to digital conversion, Integrated 2GB micro SD card, 450mAh rechargeable Li-ion battery, stylish enclosure, wearable and highly configurable to user/developer’s specific needs

Applications

• Strength Capacity and Force Measurement
• Rehabilitation
• Sports Training
• Muscular-skeletal Clinical Research
• Environmental Monitoring
• Fall Risk Assessment (Grip Strength)

***Hardware customization We recognize the variation in gain and ranges of interest when performing research with load cells. Hardware customization is best discussed with our engineers at the time of order and executed by our factory.

Download the Shimmer Wireless Strain Gauge Data Sheet

Watch the tutorial:

Skip to the 4.25 mark to see the Shimmer Strain Gauge Streaming in real-time ...