loadpad^® force sensors for measuring normal force in biomechanics and industry

The loadpad^® force sensors were developed by novel for use in a wide range of applications including medicine*, rehabilitation*, sports, ergonomics, biomechanics, and industrial production quality control. The loadpad^® measures the normal force placed on the sensor area and is therefore the ideal solution for measurements which do not require information about the distribution of force across a surface.


mk loadpad^®, 30 x 20 x 3 mm for finger load analysis

Display of forces produced by the finger

The loadpad^® measures the normal total force using a thin, flexible sensor. Based on a new patent, it is the first sensor which can accurately assess the total force even if heterogeneously loaded across the sensor surface. The loadpad^® sensor has matchbox-sized electronics and communicates wirelessly via Bluetooth with a smartphone. The force values are displayed on the smartphone in real time. The user can also receive immediate feedback regarding the applied force via an auditory, visual, or vibratory signal. The measured data can be stored on the smartphone and to the cloud and additionally transferred to a computer for a more detailed analysis. Long-term measurements allow the evaluation of different parameters such as impulse, load frequency or loading rate.

The loadpad^® app can be modified for specific applications. It is easy to use, offers numerous display options and allows the analysis of various parameters. Data can also be exported to an ASCII file for additional assessment not included within the app. Additionally, the Windows loadpad^® analysis software offers an extensive evaluation of the loadpad^® data on the computer.

The loadpad^® sensors are available in several standard sizes and with different sensitivity and maximum loads. In order to achieve an optimal adaptation to the intended measuring surface, the loadpad^® sensor can be produced with different material coverings. The sensor can also be manufactured with a maximum of three sub-areas if it is necessary to distinguish different loads across the sensor surface. The loadpad^® sensors can be configured accordingly to customer-specific requirements in terms of shape, size, sensitivity, and surface coatings. The loadpad^® accurately measures a complete assessment of the total force in the normal direction to the sensor.


saf loadpad^®, 15.5 x 10.5 cm

mk loadpad^®, 3 x 2 cm

ad loadpad^®, 10.5 x 5.0 cm

Features of the loadpad^® force sensors:

•    Provides force curve and time process
•    Provides biofeedback for adjustable force levels
•    Uses patented, capacitive, robust textile sensors
•    Uses small, lightweight electronics
•    Transmits the measurement in real time to smartdevices
•    Works with iOS and Android devices
•    Scans the measuring surface at up to 200 Hz
•    Offers apps for a wide range of applications
•    Detects the force on the entire sensor surface
•    Enables connection to novel Windows software
•    Provides ASCII output for scientific data analysis
•    Operates with coin cell or rechargeable batteries


kab loadpad^®, 20 x 40 cm


Technical data of the loadpad^® force sensors:

Specific applications

mt loadpad^® force monitoring device
Accurate measurement of force production during manipulative and manual therapies*

The mt loadpad^® force measuring device accurately measures the force produced during any manual or manipulative therapy activity. The frequency, amplitude, timing, and rate of force production can be determined. Optional feedback via visual and auditory cues can provide the user real-time information on the amount of force and rate at which oscillating techniques are being performed. Target values can be set.  Different grades of therapies can be defined and analyzed separately e.g. locating end resistance, grade III, IV, V (HVLA). The mt loadpad^® sensor is thin and highly compliant. Therefore there is minimal disturbance to the proprioception of the practitioner. The mt loadpad^® works highly accurate for a complete assessment of force production.


mt loadpad^® M, 110 x 50 x 1,6 mm for monitoring hand force production during
manual manipulation and mobilization

Force applied to mt-loadpad^® with the hand


mt loadpad^®, 35 x 25 x 3 mm for monitoring force production during manual
manipulation and mobilization

Force applied to mt loadpad^® with the finger




riders´ loadpad^® and stirrup loadpad^®
A biofeedback training tool utilizing load monitoring during riding

riders´ loadpad^® monitors the normal force between the rider and the horse saddle.
The sensor mat consists of 6 sensors (3 for left and right side, each divided into frontal, medial, and posterior areas). Placed on the saddle, the sensor pad provides feedback regarding the rider´s balance, symmetry, and stability while riding.
The stirrup loadpad^® measures the normal force exerted on the stirrups by the rider’s left and right foot.
The combination of the riders´ loadpad^® and the stirrup loadpad^® enables precise monitoring of the rider’s posture and balance. With the help of real-time biofeedback the rider can immediately correct his or hers sitting position during riding. This system supports both the rider and the trainer in achieving a more harmonious riding position and obtaining a better understanding of the interaction between the rider, the saddle, and the horse. The riders´ loadpad^® can also be used in equine therapy to measure, visualize and document the progress of the changes in posture of the patient.


riders´ loadpad^®, 33.5 x 30.5 cm

stirrup loadpad^®, 10.5 x 5.0 cm

Forces on stirrups during trotting (left and right)

“Assistive device” ad loadpad^®
Hand force measurement for assistive device walking*

With the help of the smart device loadpad^® the forces placed on the hands while walking with assistive devices can be measured. Unusually high forces may appear on the hands when a patient requires assistive devices to walk. These high forces may be problematic, especially after upper extremity.

In combination with our loadsol^® force insoles* the ad loadpad^® is a perfect solution to detect the force on the hands compared to the force being offloaded from the feet. The monitoring of these combined forces can be important if a patient has fractures on both an upper and lower limb. Therefore, it is important for the clinician to determine the maximum force applied to both limbs and document the hand and feet loading and off-loading for improved clinical outcome. The clinician sets target thresholds for visual feedback and auditory cues which provides real-time force information.

The ad loadpad^® is an accurate tool for complete assessment of normal force production. The system is simple to use and is intended for use in the clinical as well as home health care.


ad loadpad^®, 105 x 50 x 3 mm for hand load analysis on assistive devices

Forces on the handles of assistive devices (left and right)

* Important note for users inside the EC: The loadpad^® and the loadsol^® systems are not certified as a medical device according to 93/42/EEC.