Strain Gauges: Principles and Applications

This lecture covers the principles and applications of strain gauges, focusing on their use in force and torque sensors. Topics include the configuration of strain gauges, types of torque transducers, thick film strain gauges, and conducted paste strain gauges. The instructor explains the operation, compensation methods, and performance characteristics of strain gauge sensors, such as linearity, repeatability, and drift. Additionally, the lecture discusses surface pressure mapping, the design of parallel structures for force measurement, and the electromagnetic compensation force balance for weight measurement. The presentation concludes with a detailed explanation of the watt balance as a metrology device for defining the weight standard.