Microtube FLEXR Docs
Read real-time stretch and pressure from the FLEXR soft-sensing platform — in Unity or Python. Getting started, integration and API reference.
These docs are being written — this is the structure with what’s available today. Installation, quickstart and the API fill in as the FLEXR developer kit ships. Contact us for early access.
Overview
FLEXR is Microtube’s soft strain-sensing platform — a fine, stretchable polymer tube that measures stretch and pressure. The developer kit lets you read that signal in real time and bring it into your own application. At a high level:
Sense
As a FLEXR sensor is stretched, bent or pressed, its electrical resistance changes — that change is the raw signal.
Connect
The version 1 developer kit has 5 channels — connect one FLEXR sensor to each channel and read all five at once.
Read
Stream the live values into your code, with Unity and Python support.
Use
Turn stretch and pressure into inputs — track motion and force, drive an interface, or close a control loop.
FLEXR measures both stretch and pressure, stretches up to 3× its length, and detects deformation below 1% — for wearables, robotics, research and clinical devices.
Prerequisites
- A FLEXR developer kit (sensor + read-out electronics)
- Unity 2022.3 LTS or newer, or Python 3.9 or newer
Don’t have a kit yet? Request access.
Installation
Choose your platform. Full setup steps are on the way.
Unity setup for the FLEXR developer kit is being documented.
Python setup for the FLEXR developer kit is being documented.
Quickstart: FLEXR Controller
The fastest way to use FLEXR — no code required. The FLEXR Controller desktop app turns any FLEXR device into a keyboard: install it, map each sensor port to a key, and your FLEXR sends keystrokes to any app or game.
Install
Download and run the FLEXR Controller installer (Windows 10/11), then open the app.
Connect & calibrate
Under Device, connect your FLEXR; then use Calibrate to set each port’s range.
Map ports to keys
In Mapping, pick a port (P1–P5) and choose what it sends — a key, mouse action or combo — in tap or hold mode. Save reusable setups as profiles.
Go live
Switch to Live and your FLEXR drives the keyboard in any app or game.
Download FLEXR Controller for Windows (.exe) — Windows 10/11, always the latest release. This build isn’t code-signed, so Windows SmartScreen may warn you: choose More info → Run anyway. Provided as-is, without warranty.
Every release ships a SHA256SUMS.txt. To check the file, open PowerShell in your Downloads folder and run Get-FileHash .\FlexR-Controller-Setup.exe -Algorithm SHA256 — the hash should match the value listed there.
Core concepts
How FLEXR senses
As the soft polymer tube is stretched, bent or pressed, its electrical resistance changes — and that change is exactly what FLEXR measures. Movement and force become a clean, continuous signal you can read and act on.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Measures | Stretch and pressure |
| Stretch range | Up to 3× its length |
| Sensitivity | Detects deformation below 1% |
| Signal | Change in electrical resistance |
Stretch & pressure
FLEXR responds to both stretch and pressure, so the same sensor can track a joint bending, a muscle flexing, or force applied to a surface — depending on how it’s placed.
The data model, sampling and calibration will be added here as the docs grow — we’ll fill these in together.
FAQ
What is FLEXR?
FLEXR is Microtube’s soft strain-sensing platform — a fine, stretchable polymer tube that measures stretch and pressure and fits almost any form factor.
What can it measure?
Both stretch and pressure. Depending on how it’s placed, the same sensor can track a joint bending, a muscle flexing, or force applied to a surface.
How does it sense?
As the soft tube is stretched, bent or pressed, its electrical resistance changes — and that change is the signal FLEXR reads.
Does it support Unity and Python?
Yes — the FLEXR developer kit has both Unity and Python support, so you can stream real-time data into either.
How do I get a developer kit?
The kit is available to partners. Tell us your use case on the contact page and we’ll get you set up.
What is the FLEXR Controller?
A desktop app that turns any FLEXR device into a keyboard — no code required. Install it, map each sensor port to a key in tap or hold mode, and your FLEXR sends keystrokes to any app or game. See the Quickstart to download it.
What can I build with FLEXR?
Wearables and fitness devices (like the ARIS strength tracker), rehab and clinical tools, soft robotics feedback, and research rigs where rigid sensors won’t fit.