The actuating forces applied to pedals under different operating conditions are measured during test drives on the road and in the driving simulator to obtain a human/machine response profile and to determine the loads exerted on individual components. The sensor used in these tests has a low-profile design to minimize any impact on the feel of the pedal. It must be designed to be insensitive to side loads over its entire surface, be able to track rapid load changes when using the ABS system, have overload protection and be easy to fit securely.