Optical force sensors

Optical force sensors from ams OSRAM enable intuitive, reliable, and design flexible human machine interfaces by measuring force induced surface deformation with light. Using an optically isolated emitter detector principle, they precisely distinguish soft, medium, and hard presses and can also support touch and proximity functions on infrared transparent surfaces with a broad usage in automotive, consumer, and home & building automation applications fields.
The Integrated Optical Force Sensor combines low noise photodiode readout, a synchronized infrared emitter, temperature sensing, and advanced signal processing in an ultra compact package. This architecture ensures accurate force detection with ambient light suppression, crosstalk cancellation, and smart communication for stable and reliable operation—even in harsh environments.

With no mechanical components or electrical contact to the surface, the sensors integrate seamlessly behind metal, glass, or plastic panels. The result is robust, hygienic, and water resistant control interfaces with high design flexibility. These sensors are ideal for multimodal control elements in automotive, industrial, consumer, and smart surface applications requiring durability, precision, and compact integration.