Force sensor using integral force biasing for improved linearity

A force-measurement system comprising:

• a force sensor having a central region;
• a force-coupling member in mechanical contact with the central region of the force sensor, wherein the central region of the force sensor deflects in response to a force applied to the force-transfer member and directed toward the force sensor;
• and,
• a preload-force applicator that directs a predetermined preload-force toward the central region of the force sensor, the predetermined preload-force adding to an externally-applied force to create a total applied force directed toward the force sensor,
• wherein the electrical signal responds to an externally-applied force substantially linearly when the externally-applied force is greater than zero and less than a maximum externally-applied force,
• wherein the electrical signal responds to a total applied force non-linearly over a total applied force range between zero and the predetermined preload-force.

A force-measurement system comprising:

• a force sensor having a central region;
• a force-coupling member in mechanical contact with the central region of the force sensor, wherein the central region of the force sensor deflects in response to a force applied to the force-transfer member and directed toward the force sensor;
• and,
• means for applying a predetermined preload-force directed toward the central region of the force sensor, the predetermined pre-load force adding to an externally-applied force to create a total applied force directed toward the force sensor,
• wherein the electrical signal responds to an externally-applied force substantially linearly when the externally-applied force is greater than zero and less than a maximum externally-applied force,
• wherein the electrical signal responds to a total applied force non-linearly over a total applied force range between zero and the predetermined preload-force.