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# Prototype Brief — Handheld Force-Sensing Probe ## Summary I need a working prototype of a small handheld instrument that measures the contact force applied through a thin rigid probing tip. When the tip is pressed against a surface, the device reads the applied force in real time and signals when a target force is reached. All sensing and electronics stay inside the handle; the tip itself is a slim passive pin. This is a proof-of-concept prototype, not a finished product. Priority is a fast, cheap, working demonstration. ## How it works (concept) - A thin, rigid probing tip is mounted on a shaft. - The shaft is free to slide a tiny amount (roughly 0.1–0.3 mm) inside the handle against a light preload spring. - Pressing the tip transfers axial force to a force sensor housed in the handle. - The electronics read the force, show it live, and trigger feedback (light + vibration) when a configurable target force is reached. - Force readings are also sent wirelessly (Bluetooth) to a phone/tablet or PC. The key design rule: **the part that touches the surface stays thin and passive; all sensing lives in the handle.** ## Functional requirements - Measure axial contact force through the tip, in roughly the 0.05–1.0 N range, with a configurable alert threshold set in firmware. - Live force value available over Bluetooth (BLE). - On-device feedback: an LED (e.g. green below threshold, red above) and a small vibration cue at the threshold. - Handle is sealed enough to survive wipe-down cleaning with disinfectant (no full waterproofing / autoclave needed). - Tip + shaft are removable stainless steel and contain no wiring. ## Form factor - Handle roughly pen-sized (about 12–16 mm diameter), balanced so it feels like a normal handheld instrument. - Tip stays slim (comparable to a fine probe pin). - Total length and weight kept close to a standard handheld probe. ## Suggested starting components (open to substitution) - Force sensor: small MEMS force sensor or micro compression/button load cell. - Signal conditioning: HX711 or ADS1220 ADC. - Controller with wireless: Seeed Xiao ESP32-C3 or nRF52840 (BLE). - Power: small rechargeable LiPo (100–150 mAh) with onboard charging. - Feedback: RGB LED + small coin vibration motor. ## Deliverables 1. Working prototype: probing tip + sliding shaft + force sensor + electronics inside a 3D-printed handle. 2. Firmware: reads force, converts to real units, drives the LED + vibration threshold, streams force over BLE. 3. Calibration: force reading validated against known weights, with the method documented. 4. Simple readout: a basic phone/PC display of the live force value (a minimal app or existing BLE viewer is fine). 5. Source files: firmware code, CAD files for the shaft/handle, wiring diagram, and a short build/calibration note. ## Skills needed (ideally one person) - Embedded electronics + firmware (load cell / ADC / microcontroller, BLE). - Mechanical design / CAD + 3D printing (the sliding-shaft mechanism and sealed handle). - A mechatronics or hardware-prototyping generalist is the ideal fit. ## To include in your proposal - Similar hardware prototypes you've built (with photos/links if possible). - Whether you can handle both the electronics and the mechanical/CAD side, or only one. - Rough cost and timeline to a working prototype. - Any parts you'd recommend changing and why. ## Terms - An NDA will be signed before detailed discussion. - All designs, code, and IP created for this project are assigned to me.
Project ID: 40583989
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Hi I am an embedded systems engineer with over 16 years of experience. I have built several handheld sensing and mechatronic prototypes where the hard part was not only reading a sensor, but making the mechanics, calibration, firmware, BLE link and enclosure work together reliably in a small package. I can handle both sides of this probe: the sliding stainless shaft/tip concept, 3D printed pen-style handle, force sensor/ADC selection, rechargeable electronics, threshold LED/vibration feedback, BLE streaming, firmware, wiring, CAD and calibration notes. For this force range I would first evaluate a small compression load cell or MEMS force sensor with a higher resolution ADC; HX711 may work for a quick demo but ADS1220 or a suitable MEMS option may give better stability and update behavior in this form factor. For similar client hardware prototypes, photos/links cannot be shared publicly, but I can show relevant examples privately after NDA. My approach would be a fast proof-of-concept build first, validate force readings using known weights, then refine the handle fit/sealing enough for wipe-down cleaning. A few details to confirm are the preferred tip diameter/length, acceptable handle length, required BLE display platform, and whether one working unit is enough for this phase. Please contact me to discuss details.
$300 USD in 21 days
7.5
7.5

Hi, how are you doing? I went through your project description and I can help you in your project. your project requirements perfectly match my expertise. We are a team of Electrical and Electronics engineers, we have successfully completed 1000+ Projects for multiple regular clients from OMAN, UK, USA, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Lebanon and many other countries. We are providing our services in following areas: Antenna Design (CST, HFSS) Embedded C Programming. VHDL/Verilog, Quartus/Vivado, LabVIEW/ Multisim/PSPICE/VLSI MATLAB/SIMULINK Network Simulator NS2/NS3 Microcontroller like Arduino, Raspberry Pi, FPGA, AVR, PIC, STM32 and ESP32. IDEs like Keil MDK V5, ATmel studio and MPLab XC8. PLCs / SCADA PCB Designing Proteus, Eagle, KiCAD and Altium IOT Technologies like Ethernet, GSM GPRS. HTTP Restful APIs connection for IOT Communications. Also, we have good command over report writing, I can show you many samples of our previous reports. Kindly consider us for your project and text me so that we can further discuss specifically about your project's main goals and requirements.
$20 USD in 7 days
6.2
6.2

Hi, Your handheld force-sensing probe is an interesting mechatronics project, and I can develop the complete proof-of-concept from hardware through firmware. I have experience with embedded systems, precision analog sensing, BLE communication, PCB design, and rapid prototyping of compact electronic devices. I will design the sliding-shaft mechanism, select the most suitable force sensor and signal-conditioning circuit, develop the firmware for accurate force measurement, LED and vibration feedback, BLE data streaming, and calibration. The design will be optimized for a compact, pen-sized enclosure while ensuring reliable force transfer and repeatable measurements. Deliverables will include the PCB, schematic, firmware source code, CAD files for the enclosure and probe assembly, wiring diagrams, calibration procedure, BOM, and complete build documentation. I can also recommend alternative components where they improve accuracy, reliability, or manufacturability while keeping costs reasonable. I provide regular progress updates, prototype validation, and clear technical documentation throughout development. I am comfortable signing an NDA, and all source files, documentation, and intellectual property will be transferred to you upon project completion. I look forward to discussing your requirements and helping bring this prototype to a successful working demonstration. Regards,
$20 USD in 1 day
5.8
5.8

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I've reviewed your prototype brief carefully, and I believe the key to a successful proof-of-concept is treating the mechanical and electronic design as one system. The sliding shaft, preload spring, and force sensor must work together to achieve stable, repeatable measurements while keeping the probe tip completely passive. I can handle both the electronics and mechanical development, including the sensor interface, BLE firmware, CAD design, and a 3D-printed prototype. I'll also evaluate your suggested components and recommend alternatives where they improve accuracy, response time, or simplify integration without increasing cost unnecessarily. Proposed milestones: Mechanical concept, component selection, and system architecture CAD design, electronics, and PCB/assembly Firmware, BLE communication, and calibration Prototype validation, documentation, and source file delivery Before we begin, I'd like to discuss the required force accuracy, preferred BLE platform (phone, tablet, or PC), and whether this prototype should prioritize compact size or ease of assembly for future iterations. I'm happy to sign an NDA and can deliver all CAD files, firmware, documentation, and IP as part of the final handover.
$20 USD in 7 days
5.1
5.1

Hi, I have 12+ years of experience developing embedded and mechatronic prototypes, delivering 40+ production-ready hardware designs including precision sensor interfaces, BLE devices, STM32/ESP32 systems, and custom PCB/mechanical integrations. I can handle both the electronics and firmware development, and I can also support the mechanical design of the handle and sliding-shaft mechanism for a complete proof-of-concept prototype. Approach ✅ I will evaluate the sensing mechanism, select the optimal force sensor, ADC, BLE MCU, and power architecture, then design the sliding-shaft assembly for accurate axial force transfer with minimal friction. ✅ I will develop the electronics, PCB, firmware, and CAD model, integrating BLE communication, LED/vibration feedback, battery charging, and a compact 3D-printable enclosure. ✅ I will calibrate the force measurement using traceable weights, validate repeatability, and deliver source files, CAD, firmware, wiring documentation, and build instructions. Questions ✅ What target accuracy and repeatability do you require across the 0.05–1.0 N measurement range? ✅ Is the 12–16 mm handle diameter a strict constraint, or can it increase slightly to improve battery life and mechanical robustness? ✅ Would a miniature MEMS force sensor provide advantages over a button load cell if it improves size, sensitivity, and long-term stability? Best, Yaroslav
$20 USD in 7 days
5.2
5.2

I am an Embedded Systems Engineer with hands-on experience in ESP32, STM32, Arduino, IoT solutions, PCB design, and industrial automation. I specialize in developing complete hardware and firmware solutions from concept to production. My experience includes sensor integration, wireless communication, data logging systems, Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity, MQTT communication, cloud integration, and custom PCB development. My expertise includes: • ESP32 Firmware Development • STM32 Firmware Development • Arduino Projects • PCB Design using Altium Designer • IoT Solutions (Wi-Fi, BLE, Ethernet, MQTT) • AWS IoT Integration • Sensor Integration and Calibration • Data Logging Systems • Industrial Automation Projects • Embedded Linux Development • Serial Communication (UART, RS485, Modbus) • I2C, SPI, CAN Bus Development • Product Prototyping and Testing Recent project experience includes: • ESP32 Ethernet-based monitoring systems • BLE sensor networks with multiple wireless nodes • Engine dynamometer data acquisition systems • Industrial pressure, temperature, RPM, and level monitoring systems • MQTT-based cloud monitoring solutions • Custom PCB design and manufacturing support I focus on delivering reliable, well-documented, and production-ready solutions while maintaining clear communication throughout the project. Let's discuss your project requirements and build an efficient solution together.
$250 USD in 6 days
4.7
4.7

With my extensive background in electrical engineering, I am confident in my ability to deliver a functional and well-designed prototype that meets all your needs. Over the course of my 8-year career - I've successfully undertaken projects that involve complex microcontroller firmware development, circuit design and PCB layouts; all of which align closely with the core requirements of your project. Moreover, my skills extend beyond pure embedded electronics and align well with the mechanical design aspect of this project. I have substantial experience with CAD and 3D printing as well, flavoring me as an ideal fit for your diverse requirement needs. My aim is always to deliver robust hardware solutions that meet high standards in safety, reliability, and performance - which are fundamental in your delicate use-case. By choosing me for this project, you would be partnering with a highly efficient problem-solver who is comfortable working under tight deadlines without compromising on quality or detail. Given a sufficient time-frame we can submit a solid working prototype within about 5-weeks at an estimated cost of $6000, incorporating vital changes such as higher capacity rechargeable LiPo (maybe up to 200mAh) battery to ensure longer operating times. Overall, I guarantee that entrusting your project to me will be a wise investment producing excellent results.
$20 USD in 2 days
4.4
4.4

I can design a small Handheld Force-Sensing Probe and write the firmware that will Measure axial contact force through the tip, in roughly the 0.05–1.0 N range and send the live data on BLE. Hi, I am Zain. I can easily handle the task including • Embedded Systems • Circuit Design • PCB Design • KiCAD / Altium • Mixed Signal PCB Designs / High Frequency PCB Designs • Firmware Development • C / C++ • Simulations etc. Lets chat. Best regards
$150 USD in 10 days
4.1
4.1

Hello There, I have a 3D printer and every other thing needed for a perfect Prototype. If we go with nRF52840 its a bit expensive but less power consumption. ESP32-C3 is very cheap option. I suggest we use it. Let me know how we can proceed. Thank you. Pathum.
$100 USD in 5 days
4.2
4.2

Combining my expertise in mechanical design and CAD, I propose offering a comprehensive solution to your handheld force-sensing probe project. My extensive experience with Solidworks, Fusion 360, and Autocad will enable me to design and 3D print a slim, balanced handle that feels like a normal handheld instrument, as well as the shaft that houses the sliding mechanism. I'd be delighted to create all the firmware you need to read the force, convert it into real units, drive the LED + vibration threshold, and even stream force data over BLE. On the electronics front, I have significant experience in embedded systems design and handling various microcontrollers such as ESP32-C3 or nRF52840 - which would undoubtedly work for your requirements. I've successfully completed similar projects before; one notable project being an automated weighing system that required high precision readings - just like your project. Considering this and my innate ability to take up substantial hardware prototyping tasks as mentioned in your brief, I know I'd be tailor-made for this endeavor. To guarantee transparency, high-quality output, and meet our set deadline effectively; we'll have open lines of communication throughout the project. Moreover, I always aim to finalize products on time without compromising quality. By choosing me as your freelancer for this project
$20 USD in 1 day
2.1
2.1

With proven expertise in prototyping and sensor technologies, I understand the need for a handheld force-sensing probe that accurately measures contact force in real time. My previous projects involving compact sensor integration align well with this task. Could you provide more details on the specific target force range you aim to achieve for this prototype? Regards, mundadiya
$25 USD in 24 days
0.0
0.0

With my proficiency in 3D modeling and printing, I'm confident that I can successfully deliver a working prototype of the handheld force-sensing probe you require. Throughout my 4 years of experience, I've consistently produced high-quality, optimized 3D assets for various industries, solving similar design challenges to create objects with a perfect balance between material integrity and weight. My knowledge and use of software such as Cura and PrusaSlicer further ensure precision in preparing models for printing. Regarding form factor specifications, I have extensive experience working on digital models with specific dimensions and weight to match real-world products accurately. In addition to the mechanical aspect, I maintain a strong grasp of electrical systems to tackle embedded electronics and firmware (including your choice of BLE). This means that I am ready to skillfully handle both electronic and mechanical/CAD aspects of this project, which ensures streamlined communication and execution throughout. Looking at your suggested components list, I believe we can benefit from certain substitutes like employing the nRF52840 controller instead of Seeed Xiao ESP32-C3 to achieve even more optimal results. By choosing me for this project, you secure bothq
$20 USD in 1 day
0.0
0.0

I would love the opportunity to develop your handheld force-sensing probe prototype. I have experience working on embedded electronics, microcontroller-based systems, sensor integration, PCB design, firmware development, and mechanical prototyping. I can handle both the electronics and the mechanical/CAD aspects of the project, delivering a complete proof-of-concept prototype. Your concept is well defined, and I can build a compact pen-style device featuring a sliding stainless-steel shaft, integrated force sensor, BLE-enabled microcontroller, LED and vibration feedback, rechargeable LiPo power, and firmware for real-time force measurement and wireless streaming. I will also provide calibration using known weights, complete source code, CAD files, wiring diagrams, and build documentation. If needed, I can recommend alternative components to improve accuracy, reliability, or reduce prototype cost while keeping development fast. I understand the importance of clean mechanical design, accurate force sensing in the 0.05–1.0 N range, and a robust demonstration prototype. I am comfortable signing an NDA, and I fully respect IP ownership requirements. I am committed to delivering accurate, high-quality work on schedule while maintaining clear communication throughout the project. I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss your requirements and contribute to the success of this prototype.
$20 USD in 7 days
0.0
0.0

Okay, I got what you want exactly. I am a Full Stack Engineer Embedded Engineer and PCB Designer with 10 years of experience, providing embedded hardware, BLE firmware, sensor integration, low-power electronics, and rapid prototype development. In my opinion, the fastest approach is to separate the mechanical sensing from the electronics by using a sliding shaft with a miniature compression force sensor inside the handle. This keeps the probe tip passive while providing accurate force measurement, BLE streaming, and responsive LED/vibration feedback. This project is very similar to my previous works. I have developed handheld embedded devices featuring load cells, precision ADCs, BLE communication, LiPo power management, and custom PCBs for proof-of-concept and production prototypes. I can also support the mechanical design of the sliding mechanism and enclosure for rapid 3D-printed prototypes. ✅ So, I will divide your project into three major steps. 1️⃣ Design the mechanical structure, electronics, and select the optimal components. 2️⃣ Develop the firmware with BLE, force measurement, LED/vibration feedback, and calibration. 3️⃣ Build and validate the prototype, then deliver all CAD, firmware, PCB, and documentation. Via private chatting or meeting, I will provide the creative idea and good tech solution for your project. Best regards. Maksym
$20 USD in 7 days
0.0
0.0

I just read your posting. It sounds like you need a Mechatronics Engineer to develop a proof-of-concept handheld force-sensing probe that combines precision mechanical design, embedded electronics, BLE communication, and firmware into a compact, pen-sized prototype. I am a Mechatronics Engineer with 10+ years of experience in embedded systems, mechanical design, CAD, PCB integration, sensor interfacing, and rapid prototyping. I have developed custom hardware using ESP32 and nRF microcontrollers, load cells, precision sensors, BLE connectivity, and 3D-printed enclosures for functional prototypes. I can deliver a complete working prototype, including the sliding shaft mechanism, force sensing electronics, BLE firmware, calibration procedure, CAD files, source code, wiring documentation, and build notes. I can also recommend component substitutions to improve accuracy, manufacturability, and cost while keeping the design compact and reliable. Let me know if my profile looks interesting, and we can set up a time to talk.
$20 USD in 10 days
0.0
0.0

Hi there, Developing a handheld force-sensing probe requires a precise balance between sensitive mechatronics and a robust mechanical enclosure. I am a hardware generalist and can handle BOTH the mechanical design (CAD/3D printing) and the embedded electronics/firmware for this proof-of-concept. To accurately measure your 0.05–1.0 N range, I recommend using the ADS1220 ADC over the HX711 for superior precision and lower noise in this micro-force application. I will integrate this with a Seeed Xiao ESP32-C3 or nRF52840 for reliable BLE streaming, a micro compression load cell, and the required LED/vibration feedback. For the mechanical side, I will design a sealed, pen-sized (12-16mm) 3D-printed handle housing a light preload spring mechanism to allow the 0.1–0.3mm travel of the passive, removable stainless-steel tip. Regarding the mechanical envelope, do you have a maximum diameter in mind for the removable stainless-steel tip to ensure it fits your specific use case? Let's open a chat to discuss the mechanical tolerances and finalize the component list. Best Regards, Savan S.
$20 USD in 15 days
0.0
0.0

⚠️If I can’t deliver, I don’t expect to get paid. I recently completed a handheld pressure sensor prototype that successfully measured contact force in real time, achieving an accuracy of ±0.1 N. This project not only met tight timelines but also garnered positive feedback for its intuitive design and reliability. With over five years of experience in embedded systems and mechanical design, I have a proven track record in developing prototypes that require both electronic and mechanical expertise. My extensive knowledge of sensor integration and CAD design perfectly aligns with your project requirements. I understand your goal is to create a fast and cost-effective proof-of-concept. My approach will ensure that the prototype is functional, user-friendly, and meets your specifications through iterative testing and feedback. I will prioritize rapid development while ensuring the design is robust. My focus will be on clear communication, seamless execution, and ensuring long-term viability of the prototype. I am confident I can deliver a working prototype that exceeds your expectations. The difference between an average result and an exceptional one is usually decided before the work even begins. Regards, Zak
$23 USD in 7 days
0.0
0.0

Hello, I reviewed your prototype brief, and the core challenge is integrating the mechanical sliding mechanism, force sensing, firmware, and BLE communication into a compact handheld form while maintaining accurate force measurements without compromising the passive probe tip. The mechanical design, sensor selection, calibration strategy, and embedded electronics need to be developed together so the prototype delivers repeatable measurements, reliable threshold feedback, and a straightforward path for future refinement. I have worked on hardware prototyping projects involving CAD, embedded electronics, sensor integration, and functional proof of concept devices, and I can share relevant examples once we connect in chat. Also a quick question, have you already identified a preferred force sensor technology for the 0.05–1.0 N range, or would you like the prototype to include a comparison and recommendation based on sensitivity and packaging constraints? Best Regards, Atik
$20 USD in 1 day
0.0
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Muscat, Oman
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