Rutronik Adds Optical Force Sensors
ams OSRAM optical sensing solution enables compact touch and force interfaces.
www.rutronik.com
Rutronik has expanded its sensor portfolio with the Optical Force™ SFH 7061 optical frontend and the AS7150 analog frontend from ams OSRAM. The highly integrated combination provides a compact optical force and touch sensing solution for next-generation human-machine interfaces in consumer, industrial and digital health applications.
Ultra-compact optical sensing platform
The SFH 7061 integrates a 940 nm infrared emitter, IR-sensitive photodiode and an optical barrier in an ultra-small package measuring just 1.8 × 1.0 × 0.5 mm. The integrated optical barrier minimizes crosstalk between emitter and sensor, ensuring stable and reproducible signal detection while reducing the need for external components.
Paired with the AS7150 analog frontend, which measures 1.68 × 1.68 × 0.4 mm, the system supports flexible configurations by connecting up to three photodiodes and IR emitters. The device’s ultra-low-power architecture and configurable design enable seamless integration into compact electronic products.
Optical Force technology for modern interfaces
Unlike conventional mechanical switches or capacitive touch sensors, Optical Force™ technology detects force and touch through optical measurement. The sensing elements can be installed behind glass, plastic or other surfaces, enabling fully sealed, minimalist designs without moving parts.
This approach allows product developers to design smooth control surfaces and adaptive interaction systems while improving durability and reliability.
Broad application range
The solution supports a wide variety of applications, including:
- Smart home controls such as switches and dimmers
- Earbuds, headphones and remote controls
- Industrial automation and robotics interfaces
- Wearables such as smartwatches and rings
- Personal care devices including electric toothbrushes and trimmers
- Medical device control panels
- E-bike and scooter user interfaces
The SFH 7061 and AS7150 devices, along with the evaluation kit, are available through Rutronik’s e-commerce platform.
Edited by an industrial journalist, Lekshman Ramdas.
www.rutronik.com
