December 2025 Newsletter

2025 NOTEWORTHY TRENDS IN FORCE MEASUREMENT SHAPING THE FUTURE

#1 Industrial Integration and Advanced Analytics – Digital outputs are no longer optional with the demands for continuous monitoring and control. Interface IO-Link Load Cells utilize an open-standard serial protocol for bi-directional data exchange between sensors and devices. The 1200 Series Universal Load Cell IO-Link Compatible System includes the popular LowProfile load cell, cable assemblies, and system-level calibration. 

Trend Insight: 76% of Interface customers noted in our recent survey that AI and predictive analytics integration is an important part of their testing process.

#2 Robotics and Automation – Multi-axis sensors are expanding into new use cases, including robotic applications ranging from surgical robots to humanoids. Interface’s new 6A55RI 6-Axis Robot Flange Force-Torque Sensor offers high-stiffness in a compact footprint that mounts directly to the robot arm. Interface continues to see interest in integrating 2-, 3-, and 6-axis sensors into assembly and manufacturing equipment to automate tasks with precision.

#3 Advanced Device Validation and Diagnostics – The test lab is becoming more autonomous through precision reference tools and portable diagnostics. Interface released the new SimulatorECX Precision mV/V Transfer Standard and the LCA Load Cell Analyzer to ensure every component in the measurement chain is reliable and audit-ready. TEDS
(Transducer Electronic Data Sheets) are in high demand as accessories that automate sensor identification and reduce setup-related human error, advancing labs toward “plug-and-measure” environments.

Our application engineers are available to discuss standard, engineered-to-order, or custom solutions to help you bridge the gap between physical interaction and digital intelligence for your 2026 testing programs. Contact us here to let us know how we can help.
 

DYNAMIC VERSUS STATIC TORQUE 101

Torque sensors fall into two fundamental categories based on the measurement type: Dynamic (Rotary) and Static (Reaction). Torque transducers measure the twisting force, or moment, applied to an object. When choosing a torque transducer, the first question must always be functional. Are you measuring the torque transmitted through a rotating element or the torque reacting against a stationary mount?

Dynamic sensors are vital for measuring continuous power transmission in operational systems. Static sensors are ideal for tests where the rotational component is fixed or moves slowly. The decision between static (reaction) and dynamic (rotary) torque sensors hinges on two primary factors: the component’s state and the method of signal transfer. Learn more in Dynamic Versus Static Torque 101. Follow our 101 Series.
 

AIRCRAFT WING TESTING FROM COMMERCIAL TO DRONE

Every aircraft that takes to the sky, from the largest commercial jetliner to the tiniest, most advanced drone, depends on the integrity of its wings. These structures form the backbone of flight, built to withstand massive, complex, and ever-changing forces.

For aerospace engineers and manufacturers, ensuring the structural strength and safety of aircraft wings is essential and governed by strict standards worldwide. The testing process for aircraft wings extends well beyond basic static load tests, involving complex, multi-year simulations spanning an aircraft’s entire operational life. This process requires transducer technology that is not only accurate but also durable enough to perform flawlessly through hundreds of millions of cycles. Read Aircraft Wing Testing Requires Force Measurement
Accuracy.
 

METROLOGY FRAMEWORK FOR VALIDATION

Metrology, the science of measurement, is the foundational pillar of the test and measurement industry.  In a practical engineering context, metrology is about more than scientific definitions. It is about rigorously applying standardization, calibration, traceability, and quality control to solve complex physical challenges.

Metrology provides the disciplined framework that allows engineers to move from theoretical models to physical validation. For metrology labs and high-stakes testing, the Gold Standard System and the 1600 and 1800 series serve as the reference standard. These sensors are the transfer standards used to validate other equipment, closing the loop on quality
control. Read more in Why is Metrology Fundamental to Test and Measurement?.
 

EXPLORING SUBZERO TESTING

The range of cold-temperature applications is vast, stretching from the heavy machinery used in natural resource extraction to the everyday consumer products we rely on for comfort. Whether it’s a massive excavator operating in an Arctic mine or a new line of weather-resistant wearables, these products must be tested to ensure they don’t fail when temperatures drop. Check out Subzero Force Measurement to Manage the Chill Effect to explore cold-temperature testing applications, from ski equipment to ice loading on power lines, and key considerations for choosing sensors.

TIP: Interface load cell engineers recommend examining four temperature-related parameters when selecting the right sensor for extreme-temperature testing: Temperature Effect on Zero, Temperature Effect on Output, Creep, and Zero Return. Watch the Ruggedized Test and Measurement Solutions Webinar to learn more.
 

UNDERSTANDING BIAS AND VARIANCE IN FORCE MEASUREMENT

The successful design of any force measurement system, from factory automation to structural monitoring, relies on a critical understanding of the two fundamental error types: bias and variance. In metrology, the concepts of bias and variance are defined by their relationship to a target true force.

The most valuable contribution of analyzing bias and variance is the diagnostic framework it provides for design improvement. If the system is inaccurate but precise (low variance, high bias), the solution is systemic and correctable. If the system is accurate but imprecise (low bias, high variance), the solution is structural and noise-related. Take a deeper dive into Bias and Variance for Benchmarking Outcomes in Force Measurement.
 

ENSURING YOUR TECH GIFTS ARE SAFE, HIGH-QUALITY, AND RELIABLE

From the haptic click of a new gaming mouse to the lightweight motorized scooter, we are surrounded by gear designed to move with us. While these gifts are often celebrated for their sleek designs, their actual value lies in the rigorous testing that takes place long before they are wrapped. Do you know about the 10-million-click rule? Do you know about smartwatch stress?  Do you know the reality of sim-racing? Do you know the “pop” factor? Do you know the secret of haptics? Find the answers in The Testing Behind Your Favorite Gifts. As you enjoy your new tech and head out for a game or a workout, you can appreciate the silent support of test and measurement.
 

RESOURCES AND MORE

DELIVERY 2.0: To truly master autonomous delivery, whether food delivery robots or self-driving transports, engineers integrate sensors into the vehicle’s structural components. Explore delivery applications.

INTERFACEIQ PODCASTS! Listen to Episodes 12 and 13 of the podcast series dedicated to force measurement. New releases: Engineering Custom Load Cells and End of Year Load Cell Calibration and Maintenance are out now! Subscribe here and also listen on Spotify.

CIVIL ENGINEERING: Historically, the relationship between civil engineers and force sensors was binary. It begins with testing the materials, then progresses to the construction of the project. Read more.

NEW INTERFACE VIDEOS: Watch Tension Links 101, How Interface Sensors Power Drone Technology and Food Delivery Robots Animated App Note. Interface has 419 videos on our Interface
YouTube Channel. Subscribe today! 

WEEKLY LINKEDIN NEWSLETTER: We publish a weekly InterfaceIQ newsletter. What’s new? Our latest editions: The Nuances of Torque Measurement and Calibration, Precision Sensors are Moving Physical Rehabilitation Advancements to a New Level, Decoding the Core Difference in Stress versus
Strain, and Precision Measurement for Unearthing Critical Minerals. Are you following? Subscribe on LinkedIn.

We are looking forward to staying connected throughout 2026. Happy New Year!

Your Interface Team