Flex Sensor with Arduino

How to Use a Flex Sensor with Arduino

Flex sensors are versatile components that measure bending. Follow this guide to learn how to use them with Arduino.

Components Needed

• Arduino Board: Any model such as Uno, Nano, or Mega.
• Flex Sensor: Commonly available in sizes like 2.2 inches or 4.5 inches.
• Resistor: Typically, a 10k ohm resistor is used.
• Breadboard and Jumper Wires: For making connections.

Circuit Diagram

Here’s how to connect the flex sensor to the Arduino:

1. Connect one end of the flex sensor to 5V on the Arduino.
2. Connect the other end of the flex sensor to one end of the 10k ohm resistor.
3. Connect the other end of the resistor to GND on the Arduino.
4. Connect the junction between the flex sensor and resistor to an analog input pin on the Arduino (e.g., A0).

Arduino Code

const int flexPin = A0; // Pin connected to the junction of the flex sensor and resistor void setup() { Serial.begin(9600); // Start the serial communication } void loop() { int flexValue = analogRead(flexPin); // Read the value from the flex sensor Serial.println(flexValue); // Print the value to the Serial Monitor delay(500); // Delay for stability }

Testing

To test the setup:

1. Upload the code to your Arduino board.
2. Open the Serial Monitor (found in the Arduino IDE under the "Tools" menu).
3. Observe the values printed in the Serial Monitor. These values should change as you bend and straighten the flex sensor.

Applications

Flex sensors can be used in applications such as:

• Wearable Technology: Detecting finger or limb movement.
• Robotics: Measuring angles and positions.
• Gaming: Creating interactive controllers.