Force sensor with multiple piece actuation system

A force sensor, comprising:

• a housing structure, said housing structure having an opening formed therein;
• a pressure sensitive component disposed within said housing structure;
• a first actuator disposed in contact with said pressure sensitive component;
• a second actuator disposed in contact with said first actuator, said second actuator being disposed within said opening to transmit a force from an external source to said first actuator, said first actuator being disposed inline between said second actuator and said pressure sensitive component to transmit said force from said second actuator to said pressure sensitive component;
• and
• a plate, separate from said pressure sensitive component and said actuators shaped to retain said first actuator in contact with said pressure sensitive component, said plate having an opening formed therethrough, said first actuator being disposed within said opening formed through said plate, said plate being made of an elastomeric material, said first actuator being spherical, and said pressure sensitive component comprising a silicon die having at least one piezoresistive element disposed thereon.