Measuring
the imperceptible

6 sensors spanning 5 decades of force — from 20 µN to 2 N — with resolution down to 1 nN.
Shipped calibrated, traceable to SI, as a ready-to-measure pack.

Our sensors

Two families of MEMS sensors to cover your bending and tension‑compression measurement needs.

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Bending

Lateral MEMS sensor for transverse force measurement. Ideal for bending tests on microbeams and microstructures.

Measurement range
20µN 20mN
Resolution
1nN @10 Hz
Stiffness
1N/m 1kN/m
Eigenfrequency
100Hz 10kHz
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Compression

Axial MEMS sensor for force measurement along the tip axis. Designed for tension, compression and indentation tests.

Measurement range
2mN 2N
Resolution
100nN @10 Hz
Stiffness
1kN/m 1MN/m
Eigenfrequency
1kHz >100kHz

What is a microforce?

To give you an idea, here is what the forces measured by our 6 sensors represent.

🦟 20 µN The weight of a mosquito
🍚 200 µN The weight of a grain of rice
🐝 2 mN The weight of a bumblebee
🪶 20 mN The weight of a feather
🍒 200 mN The weight of a cherry
🍎 2 N The weight of an apple

Each sensor covers one decade of force. The full range spans 5 orders of magnitude.

Why choose SensiTips?

Sensors designed for demanding research and industrial integration.

High sensitivity

Architecture and measurement chain optimized to reach resolutions down to the nanonewton at 10 Hz bandwidth.

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Fits your setup

Sensors designed to be mounted on your actuators, robots, stages, or any existing test platform. Plug & measure.

Metrology & traceability

Every sensor is calibrated using a state-of-the-art procedure, linking measured forces to an international SI standard.

The sensor pack, ready to measure

Every sensor ships calibrated and traceable to SI, with everything you need to measure on your own platforms. Output is available in analog and USB.

Microforce sensorLAT (bending) or AXI (tension-compression), matched to your range
ElectronicsSignal conditioning, analog and USB outputs
Calibration certificateCalibration traceable to SI
DocumentationSpecifications, setup, best practices
Integrated softwareMeasurement acquisition and visualization
Technical supportAssistance with commissioning and integration

Custom options may be discussed on request: tip geometry, connectivity.

Limitations and care

A sensor capable of resolving the nanonewton is, by nature, a delicate object. Here is what to know before integrating our sensors.

Mechanical fragilityMEMS structures are fragile: handle with care, especially during mounting
OverloadExceeding the measurement range can damage the sensor irreversibly
VibrationsThe vibration environment can affect measurements at the highest resolutions
Mechanical integrationFor demanding environments, integration should be discussed with our team beforehand

Frequently asked questions

About sensors, technique and applications.

What is a microforce?

A microforce is any force below a few millinewtons, typically in the range from nanonewton (nN) to millinewton (mN). These forces appear in cell adhesion, MEMS actuator characterization, nano-indentation of soft materials or mechanical testing of printed microstructures.

What is the difference between the LAT and AXI sensors?

The LAT sensor measures transverse (bending) forces — ideal for bending tests on microbeams and microstructures. The AXI sensor measures axial forces (compression/tension) — suited to indentation, MEMS actuators and 3D-printed micro-pillars.

How do you measure the force of a MEMS actuator or microstructure?

The AXI sensor (2 mN–2 N range, stiffness 1 kN/m to 1 MN/m) is designed for MEMS, micro-pillars and microstructures, enabling simultaneous measurement of force and stiffness.

Can microforce sensors measure forces on soft materials (hydrogels, polymers)?

Yes. The LAT sensor in its lowest-range configurations (stiffness from 1 N/m, 1 nN resolution) is designed for soft materials. It enables measurement of viscoelasticity, apparent modulus and interaction forces on hydrogels, elastomers and biofilms at the micro-scale.

Are the sensors compatible with a microscope or existing test bench?

Yes. Sensors are compact and can be integrated into optical microscopy setups or any low-clearance configuration. If you have no existing bench, our measurement services deliver results directly from our stations.

Need a microforce sensor?

Describe your application — we'll guide you to the right sensor.