Measuring granular flow through a funnel with a force sensor

Abstract

This paper presents an apparatus to measure the flow of granular matter through a funnel with a force sensor. In addition to being easily reproducible, our proposed method enhances measurement accuracy from the popular method that uses a stopwatch. We notice, however, that our proposed setup induces an unwelcome force that confounds force sensor readings. This issue is discussed, and its significance on measurement accuracy is evaluated through theoretical and experimental work.