Monday  |  Salon 12  |  09:00 AM–09:40 AM

#15917, Strain Gages and Strain Gage-Based Transducers: Theory, Application, and Best Practices

This talk is for graduate students and young research faculty who seek to sharpen their foundational understanding of strain gauges, strain gauge-based transducers, and associated best measurement practices. The presentation is framed around the linear constant-voltage Wheatstone bridge circuit, emphasizing the unique attributes and practical implementations of ¼ bridge, ½ bridge, and full-bridge circuit configurations. Specific topics of interest include the strain-gauge factor, transverse-sensitivity factor, rosette strain gauge analysis, and methodology for correcting the transverse-sensitivity error in strain-gauge measurements. Additional and valuable topics of interest include the implementation of 3 lead-wire arrangements for real-time correction of drift of lead wire resistance due to changes in ambient temperature and critical specifications for selecting appropriate data acquisition systems.

Michael Mello   California Institute of Technology