How can I measure the force applied to something?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around methods to measure and apply specific forces to a device in a personal project. Participants explore various techniques for applying horizontal forces and measuring the resulting effects on the device's deformation.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks to apply a specific force (e.g., 5N) to their device and is unsure how to measure the force being applied.
  • Another participant suggests using a platform scale to measure the force applied by pushing against the device.
  • A different participant proposes connecting a pull scale to the device to measure the force when pulling.
  • One participant expresses concerns that these methods may not be suitable due to the symmetrical shape of the device and the nature of the force application.
  • Another suggestion involves using an air cylinder to apply a known force, emphasizing the need for precision and low friction.
  • Participants discuss the potential of using a Push/Pull meter as a viable option for measuring the force applied.
  • There is a mention of using a combination of string pulleys and weights as another method to apply force.
  • Clarification is provided regarding the use of a push force gauge, with a participant confirming its suitability for the task.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple competing views on the best method to apply and measure force, with no consensus reached on a single solution. Some methods are considered unsuitable by certain participants, while others express optimism about alternative approaches.

Contextual Notes

Participants express limitations regarding the applicability of suggested methods based on the specific design and testing conditions of the device, indicating that the effectiveness of each method may vary depending on these factors.

Amarah
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Homework Statement


For a personal project I am doing, I want to test a range of forces in the horizontal direction, and see how the device I created reacts at different forces. So for example, if I want to apply 5N specifically to a device, to see how it reacts under that force, how would I go about applying it? Like applying a specific amount of force. Because I can measure displacement, and I can push on my device with my own fingers, but I don't know what amount of force I am pushing with. I want to know specifically the amount of force.

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution


Something like a dynamometer, but instead of knowing the force being applied to the dynamometer, I want to replace the dynamometer with my device. And I know spring force meters can measure a force, but I want to take a measured force and apply it to something.
 
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Put a platform scale between your finger and the device and push.
images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTbSI5TF-zmfthnlmZ4MUkktjWtrWerHW8zon_0XTcxLC3AtSKQUg.jpg


Connect a pull scale (fish scale) to the far side of your device and pull.
images?q=tbn:ANd9GcS-LahRZkt8HPwiCXIJUPkpCGSL4Z77FQ6QPhL3B_Dzpn1EVes8LA.jpg
 

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Tom.G said:
Put a platform scale between your finger and the device and push.
View attachment 222737

Connect a pull scale (fish scale) to the far side of your device and pull.
View attachment 222738

I considered these previously, but I don’t think they’ll work. My device is in a symmetrical (along the y-axis) oval shape, and in typical use, force would be applied to both the long sides (along the x-direction). So I want to apply a force to one end and see how far inwards it will deform (which would also theoretically be happening on the other end since symmetrical...)

So for the latter, I want a push force against the device, so that wouldn’t quite work. For the former, it wouldn’t really reflect the testing conditjons I want, I think. I don’t want to completely smush the device.
 
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Amarah said:
So for the latter, I want a push force against the device, so that wouldn’t quite work. For the former, it wouldn’t really reflect the testing conditjons I want, I think. I don’t want to completely smush the device.
How about a Push/Pull meter like this one?

http://www.4physics.com/catalog/images/ForceMeterPush.png
ForceMeterPush.png
 

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Combination of string pulleys and weights?
 
Amarah said:
That looks promising! Would a push force gauge be similar? I think that could work.
That *is* a push force gauge... Notice how it is being used to push that box UP the ramp...? :smile:

Use the link to the picture to get to the website. It looks like they sell several different styles of force gauges.
 
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berkeman said:
That *is* a push force gauge... Notice how it is being used to push that box UP the ramp...? :smile:

Use the link to the picture to get to the website. It looks like they sell several different styles of force gauges.

Thank you so much!
 
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