Aerospace
Aircraft, spacecraft, military and defense companies such as Boeing, Airbus, Lockheed, Northrop, Bombardier, Embraer, Gulfstream, NASA and Cessna have depended on Interface load cells for thrust, wing, static and fatigue testing.
Aircraft, Spacecraft, Military, and Defense Applications
Aerospace Overview
Aerospace Overview
Exploring the possibilities
The aerospace industry encompasses many sectors, including jetliners to rockets. The leaders in these sectors utilize our standard load cells and sensor technologies, as well as engineered-to-order and completely custom solutions to advance their inventions and test their craft. We are known for our ability to meet the exact specifications in capacities, capabilities and use case requirements for testing and measuring performance in the design and manufacturing of all types of flight vehicles. Since 1968, we have partnered through the advancements and innovations to go above and beyond.
Interface is renowned for its exceptional sensors that deliver high performance in various test and measurement applications. With a legacy spanning over five decades, aerospace pioneers and industrial giants have placed their trust in Interface to provide precise products and reliable services. Our unwavering commitment to quality, dependability, and accuracy has become the benchmark for everything we engineer and manufacture.
Our solutions are specifically designed to meet the demanding needs of the aerospace industry, where they must endure extreme conditions. Whether it involves testing wings for commercial airplanes or measuring the force exerted during the launch of an intergalactic vessel, Interface’s standard load cells and sensor technologies are utilized. Additionally, we offer engineered-to-order and fully customized solutions to cater to specific requirements. Our expertise lies in meeting exact specifications in terms of capacities, capabilities, and use cases, enabling accurate testing and measurement of performance across the design and manufacturing processes of all types of flight vehicles.
Since our establishment in 1968, we have forged strong partnerships that have propelled advancements and innovations in the aerospace industry. Our commitment to going above and beyond has been instrumental in driving progress and exceeding expectations in this dynamic field.
Rockets
Rockets
The aerospace industry, particularly the rocket sector, is experiencing unprecedented growth and innovation, driven by advances in space exploration, satellite deployment, and the emergence of new space companies.
Around the world, governments, private companies, educational institutions, and public market leaders in the aerospace sector all play significant roles in driving the growth and demand for rocket development and launch.
Interface is a Stable Force in Rocket Applications
This dynamic environment requires highly precise and reliable force and torque measurement solutions to ensure the safety, performance, and efficiency of rocket systems from design and manufacturing to launch. Interface is a key partner and longtime supplier to rocket engineers, test labs, and rocket manufacturers, providing the sensors and instrumentation essential for these demanding applications.
In the rocket industry, precision force and torque measurement are crucial. They are used throughout the entire lifecycle of a rocket, from component testing to full-scale engine firing. These measurements are used to assess and monitor structural integrity, system performance, safety, reliability, design validation, optimization, and qualtity control.
Rocket Applications Using Force and Torque Sensors
- Rocket Engine Thrust Measurement
- Propellant Tank Pressure and Load Monitoring
- Structural Load Testing
- Payload Integration and Mass Measurement
- Component Fatigue and Durability Testing
- Actuator Force and Torque Testing for Gimbaling and Control Surfaces
- Separation System Testing
- Vibration and Acoustic Testing
- Fuel and Oxidizer Flow Measurement
- Nozzle Performance Characterization
- Landing Leg Force Distribution
- Test Stand Calibration and Monitoring
- Material Property Verification
Interface Products for Rocket Solutions
Interface specializes in high-precision force and torque measurement solutions that are vital for the extreme demands of the aerospace and rocket industry. Our products are engineered for accuracy, reliability, and durability in harsh environments, making them ideal for critical design, testing, and operational phases.
- High Capacity LowProfile™ Load Cells for significant thrust and structural loads
- Mini Load Cells for smaller components and minute measurements
- Torque Transducers for rotary and reaction for engine components, and actuators
- Multi-Axis Load Cells for complex force/moment analysis and CoG testing
- Fatigue-Rated Load Cells for cyclic testing and durability studies
- Load Button Load Cells for repetitive and concentrated force measurements
- Wireless Telemetry Systems for remote monitoring, dynamic tests, and cableless environments
- Instrumentation and Amplifiers for signal conditioning and data display
- Data Acquisition Systems for real-time data logging and analysis
- Custom Sensor Solutions for unique application requirements and OEM components
Rocket Use Cases Requiring High-Performance Interface Sensors
Interface’s force and torque measurement solutions are indispensable across critical stages of rocket development and operation. Our High Capacity LowProfile™ Load Cells are prominently used in static fire test stands to accurately measure engine thrust, providing crucial data on performance, specific impulse, and propellant mixture ratios before launch.
For instance, NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) core stage testing utilizes Interface load cells attached to hydraulic cylinders to simulate massive launch loads, verifying structural performance under extreme conditions. This ensures components like liquid hydrogen and oxygen tanks can withstand immense forces.
Beyond propulsion, Interface’s miniature and multi-axis load cells are vital for detailed component testing. These sensors assess the durability and performance of critical elements, such as turbopumps, valves, and actuators, that control engine gimbaling and flight surfaces, ensuring they function flawlessly under high stress and vibration.
Furthermore, in the development of reusable rockets, our load cells are integrated into test rigs for landing leg systems, precisely measuring impact forces and load distribution to ensure safe and repeatable landings. The consistent theme is the need for highly accurate, robust, and reliable measurement in dynamic and often extreme environments, which is precisely where Interface excels.
Future Outlook and Why Interface is Suited for Rockets
The future of the rocket industry is defined by ambitious goals: routine space access, lunar and Martian colonization, and vast satellite constellations. This trajectory demands even greater precision, reliability, and innovation in testing and manufacturing.
Trends such as advanced additive manufacturing of rocket components, the development of entirely new propulsion systems, and the increased reusability of launch vehicles will necessitate more sophisticated and versatile force and torque measurement solutions that can operate in extreme temperatures and dynamic conditions.
Interface is uniquely positioned to remain a leading partner in this evolving sector. Our legacy of manufacturing the highest quality, most accurate, and most durable force and torque sensors is paramount to the safety-critical nature of rocket applications.
Aircraft
Aircraft
Interface’s Role in Aircraft and Aviation Testing
Our force measurement solutions such as precision load cells and torque transducers play an important role in static testing as force analysis results are used in nearly all structural tests. Interface manufacturers both off-the-shelf and custom solutions that are used by leading part and aircraft manufacturers. These sensor products are used on a static test stand to test frame structure integrity, endurance, and life cycles, with the goal generally being to validate aircraft design and ensure specified criteria are met. The strict accuracy is necessary because in aerospace, every micrometer and gram make a difference in both the performance and safety of an aircraft design.
Engineers and manufacturers of commercial, industrial, and military aircraft and associated components must measure multitudes of factors such as fatigue, structure durability, materials, weight distribution, drag, effects of inclement weather, velocity changes, thrust, and center of gravity to name a few. Here are a few examples of aircraft testing:
- Aircraft Weight and Balance
- Landing Gear Load Monitoring
- Cargo Loading and Monitoring
- Structural Load Testing
- In-Flight Load Monitoring
- Wing Load Testing
- Aircraft Maintenance
- Flight control system testing
- Engine testing
- Rotorcraft testing
Static Testing
Our force measurement solutions such as precision load cells and torque transducers play an important role in static testing as force analysis results are used in nearly all structural tests. Interface manufacturers both off-the-shelf and custom solutions that are used by leading part and aircraft manufacturers. These sensor products are used on a static test stand to test frame structure integrity, endurance, and life cycles, with the goal generally being to validate aircraft design and ensure specified criteria are met. The strict accuracy is necessary because in aerospace, every micrometer and gram make a difference in both the performance and safety of an aircraft design.
In our Airplane Static Testing case study, we have detailed two application examples and how Interface products are specifically used in static testing of aircraft. These examples demonstrate how our products are applied and utilized for testing an airplane jacking system and provide a solution for a jet engine thrust test.
Airplane Jacking System
In the airplane jacking system static testing application, our WTS 1200 LowProfile® Wireless Load Cells are placed on jack points measuring weights and forces on an aircraft. Our advanced Wireless Telemetry System provided instrumentation to capture real-time data, such as the individual load cells attached to each jack point, or any set alarms that may go off if it has exceeded a certain amount of force.
Jet Engine Thrust Tests
For the jet engine thrust static testing, Interface’s 1000 High Capacity Fatigue-Rated LowProfile™ Load Cell was best suited for this static testing. The load cell reacted to the thrust forces produced by the jet engine and the signals were collected and recorded to create a “thrust curve” of the engine.aircraft structural tests
Interface load cells have been used regularly in for aircraft structural tests, as well as ancillary equipment manufacturers. Our expert application engineers help you design solutions featuring our exceedingly accurate LowProfile™ load cells for structural static or fatigue testing. Our moment and temperature compensated load cells use proprietary alloy strain gages for extreme accuracy and reliability that is unmatched by other brands. Using eight proprietary strain gages per sensor, our 4mV/V output well exceeds the performance.
Structural Testing
During the development and certification of an aircraft, load cells are used to perform structural load tests. These tests simulate various flight conditions to ensure the aircraft’s components and structures can withstand the expected forces and loads during operation. Aircraft manufacturers, component makers, military, and defense companies such as Boeing, Airbus, Lockheed, Northrop, Bombardier, Embraer, Gulfstream, NASA, and Cessna utilize Interface load cells for thrust, wing, static, and fatigue testing. While structural test applications utilize many types of LowProfile™ load cells, we offer a wide variety of Load Pins, Load Washers, Load Buttons and Miniature Tension & Compression Load Cells for test, production, and control monitoring applications.
Additional Aircraft Applications Using Interface Products
- Aircraft Wing Fatigue Testing
- Landing Gear Joint Testing
- Hoist Tests for Aircraft Engines
- Helicopter and Parachute Tests
- Wind Tunnel and Environmental Condition Testing
- Reduced Gravity Simulations
- Airplane Jacking System
- Airplane Static Testing
- Propeller Testing
- Aircraft Yoke Torque Measurement
- Aircraft Lifting Equipment
- Jet Engine Thrust Test
- Rescue Helicopter Hoist Test
- Aircraft Screwdriver Fastening Control
With a range of capabilities available from miniatures measuring tenths of a Newton to enormous load cells with 2 million lbf capacity, Interface’s in-stock and custom application specific solutions can do it all.
Military and Defense
Military and Defense
Military and Defense Solutions Provider
As an esteemed partner to renowned global aerospace and defense enterprises, we have had the privilege of collaborating on numerous high-profile endeavors that demand both ready-made and tailor-made force solutions. Our team of skilled engineers and application experts work closely with our clients, ensuring that their specific requirements are met. Whether it’s a submersible sensor or a product designed for extreme compression and fatigue condition tests, we deliver the precise solution.
Our state-of-the-art precision load cells have been utilized in a wide array of projects, spanning from major undertakings to more modest ventures. From aircraft and ground vehicles to critical infrastructure, our track record includes supplying a diverse range of load cells, including jumbo and mini variants, torque transducers, multi-axis sensors, custom load pins, and cutting-edge wireless telemetry testing systems.
Custom Sensors for Military Requirements
As technology continues to drive advancements in the aerospace and defense sector, one area that has experienced significant growth is custom sensors. The evolution towards big data has led to more sophisticated testing requirements, and Interface has responded by actively collaborating with customers to create tailor-made sensors that effectively tackle unique challenges.
Among the prominent domains where the demand for custom sensors has been on the rise is in the realm of thrust application on test stands. These test stands are frequently employed in field testing scenarios, specifically for rocket or plane engines. In such field applications, multiple load cells are integrated into the test stand, necessitating the development of custom-designed sensors with features like weatherization, multiple bridges, exceptional precision, and more. This is primarily due to the exorbitant costs associated with thrust tests, including the high expense of fuel. Typically, only one opportunity exists for a successful thrust test, and any issues with the sensor could result in significant financial implications.
Interface possesses extensive expertise in designing custom sensors for our esteemed aerospace and defense partners. We possess a deep understanding of their requirements and work closely with their engineering teams to ensure that the sensors meet their needs right from the outset, minimizing the risk of costly errors.
Space Economy
Space Economy
Space Economy Solutions
Within the realm of the space industry, numerous sectors contribute to the burgeoning space economy. These sectors encompass a wide range of activities, such as satellite communication, Earth observation, space tourism, launch services, space manufacturing, and space mining, among others. This multifaceted domain involves the participation of both public and private entities, including government space agencies, commercial space companies, and research institutions.
As the global economy undergoes transformations driven by sustainability and digital technologies, Interface precision force measurement solutions play a crucial role in facilitating scientific research and development (R&D) as well as deep space explorations. Our cutting-edge force measurement solutions find applications in these endeavors, contributing to the advancements made in this dynamic field.
The Space Economy is defining new opportunities for testing on earth and beyond. From commercial craft to planet rovers, we are a provider of mission critical solutions that help advance our discoveries. Check out our Space Economy Solutions overview.
UAVs
UAVs
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are primarily used in developed countries for multiple purposes, from entertainment and agriculture monitoring to package delivery and governmental defense operations.
UAVs are aircraft systems like drones that operate without a human pilot. However, they are controlled remotely by a human or autonomously by computers and even AI. Tactical UAVs are used in various military and security cases. The most common tactical UAVs are fixed-wing and rotary-wing models.
Interface sensor technologies, including our high-accuracy load cells, torque transducers, multi-axis sensors, wireless systems, and digital instrumentation, are ideal for all types of UAV design, testing, monitoring, and continuous feedback systems in flight.
UAV Applications for Interface Measurement Solutions
- Wing Fatigue Tests
- Fixed-Wing Maneuverability Testing
- Environmental Testing
- Package Force Grips
- Lifting and Weighing Monitoring for Overload
- Propeller Tests
- Flight Simulation Equipment
- Drop Tests
- Motor Torque Testing
- Material and Strain Testing
- Agriculture Drone Monitoring Systems
Interface force sensors are used during the development, testing, and validation phases of UAVs. Testing is necessary to ensure that UAVs can withstand operational stresses, perform efficiently, and maintain reliability throughout their lifetime.
UAVs are used for entertainment purposes around the world, especially for outdoor celebrations. The move to drone technologies equipped with LED lights is quickly replacing traditions of using fireworks. Sensors like our Mini Load Cells provide valuable data in the design, lift testing and durability monitoring of UAVs for these lighted airborne spectacles.
Manufacturers and logistics market leaders are testing their own UAVs commercially by transporting goods and objects from place to place. As UAVs are used commercially, they must follow certain protocols and regulations worldwide, such as the FAA in the U.S. This is to ensure the safety of those of us on the ground and protect whatever goods are being transported in the air. Sensor data provides traceability and quality control to help adhere to these standards.
Interface has experience supplying precision measurement devices for aerospace, automotive, and industrial automation. We have several load cells, miniature transducers, and instrumentation solutions perfect for drone applications. Our wireless sensors and digital instrumentation are particularly attractive to drone makers because they eliminate the need for wires and facilitate real-world testing.
Interface also offers custom solutions for more unique UAV applications. Our team can work with OEMs, defense contractors, flight simulation companies, and UAV engineers to understand their specific needs and deliver a sensor that meets those needs.
Space Simulations
Space Simulations
As the space industry experiences rapid growth, there is an increasing demand for simulation testing, equipment, and resources to meet the pace of commercial launches, satellite deployments, human spaceflight missions, and space habitats. This growth needs solutions on Earth that accurately measure performance in appropriate space environments.
Interface understands why advanced sensor technologies and leveraging data-driven insights are critical for space simulation environments. Space innovators and aerospace companies turn to Interface to satisfy the growing demands for simulation test and measurement solutions.
We are a proud supplier to some of the world’s leading organizations, start-ups, and educational institutions that are driving a sustainable space economy. Interface load cells, torque transducers, and multi-axis sensors play a vital role in simulating space equipment, parts, and machine conditions by accurately measuring forces, torques, and stresses during testing.
Load cells are not just devices, but the guardians of spacecraft components. They measure the forces and stresses during simulated launch and landing conditions, ensuring the structural integrity of the spacecraft. These crucial tests, which include the ability of individual components like solar panels, antennas, and docking mechanisms to withstand forces in space, are made possible by load cells.
We also offer advanced sensor technologies such as miniaturization and wireless communication for specific testing needs and capabilities.
Space Simulation Applications Using Interface Products:
- Reduced Gravity Simulation Systems
- Spacewalk Simulators
- Space Robotic Testing
- Space Vehicle and Rover Environment Testing
- Control System Simulators
- Habitat and Agriculture Simulators
- Robots Simulating Repairs in Space
- Space Drone and Satellite Testing
- Space Vehicle Simulations
- Space Docking Simulations
- Dynamic Skills Training Simulations
As space simulations continue to grow significantly in the future due to advances in technology, the role of force sensors becomes even more crucial. These sensors are not just tools, but the key to simulating realistic training and mission planning into space. They measure the forces exerted by astronauts during spacewalks and other extravehicular activities, ensuring that the training scenarios are as close to reality as possible.
The space simulation market is experiencing robust growth, and load cells of all sizes are crucial test and measurement devices that ensure the safety, reliability, and performance of spacecraft and components in the challenging space environment.
Satellites
Satellites
Precision and reliability are paramount in aerospace engineering. Force sensors and load cells play a critical role in satellite design, testing, and deployment by ensuring structural integrity, optimizing performance, and safeguarding delicate instrumentation.
There are an estimated 7,500 satellites actively orbiting Earth. With an increasing demand for constellation networks, the number is growing rapidly. In the global market, hundreds of established aerospace industry leaders, along with start-ups and innovators, are designing, manufacturing, and monitoring satellites.
Interface is a premier solution provider that meets the rigorous demands of satellite development. Interface load cells, torque transducers, multi-axis sensors, and instrumentation have various satellite applications, from measuring forces during static and dynamic load tests to measuring the thrust and impulse of rocket engines and thrusters that deploy satellites.
Our force sensors are crucial for the overall lifespan of satellites before they are launched into space. From validating designs to measuring the thrust force it takes to enter space, our products help optimize designs, reduce risks, and prevent component failures.
Satellite Applications Using Interface Products
- Preload Measurement for Satellite Restraint Mechanisms
- Structural Integrity Stress Testing
- Structural Health Monitoring
- Material and Component Design Validation
- Deployment Mechanism Tests
- Attitude Control System (ACS) Testing
- Sensor Calibration
- Payload Integration and Testing
- Vacuum and Environmental Testing
- Launch Vehicle Integration Monitoring
- Orbit Performance and Maintenance Monitoring
Satellite components, such as solar panels and antennae, are tested with load cells to verify their resilience to mechanical forces. These tests replicate conditions experienced during deployment and operation in space.
Our space industry work is essential because it requires the highest quality and accuracy possible. Interface prides itself on developing testing solutions to meet any need and our ability to contribute to satellite launches.
At Interface, we specialize in designing and manufacturing highly accurate precision load cells. The global aerospace industry utilizes our sensors because of our advanced strain gages, capacities, model configurations, and ability to customize our products for specific space industry use cases, including for satellites.
Drones
Drones
Interface specializes in high-precision force and torque measurement solutions, making our products highly relevant for integration into advanced drone systems and their rigorous testing. Our extensive product portfolio is designed to meet the demanding requirements for varying measurement capacity, accuracy, durability, and compact size inherent in drone applications.
The global drone market, encompassing consumer drones, commercial drones, and defense drones, is experiencing an unprecedented surge, with an expected value of hundreds of billions of dollars by 2030. This growth, driven by advances in AI, battery efficiency, and sensor capabilities, is transforming countless industries worldwide.
Drones are primarily categorized by their rotor configuration, which impacts their flight characteristics and ideal applications. Whether multi-rotor, fixed-wing, single-rotor, or hybrid VTOL drones, all are undertaking increasingly complex and critical tasks. Rigorous testing and design are crucial to meet stringent international standards and ensure the safety of operators, manufacturers, and the public.
The widespread integration of drones into vital operations across logistics, agriculture, infrastructure inspection, public safety, and more highlights the critical need for thorough testing. Interface sensor technologies are key to achieving the performance and safety standards needed for progress in drone technology.
Drone Test & Measurement Applications Using Interface Products
- Airframe Design
- Structural Integrity and Component Testing
- Material Testing
- Propulsion System Optimization
- Torque Motor Testing
- Propeller Endurance
- Grip and Lifting Tests
- Weighing and Performance Monitoring
- Balance, Stability, and CoG Tests
- Payload Integration and Continuous Monitoring
- Landing Gear and Delivery Performance
- Aerodynamic Characterization
- Flight Control
- Environmental Testing
The widespread use of drones in key areas, such as logistics, agriculture, infrastructure inspection, and public safety, highlights the urgent need for thorough testing. Interface sensor technologies are essential for meeting the performance and safety standards required.
Interface Products for Drone Design, Test, and Use
- Mini Load Cells
- Load Button Load Cells
- S-Type Load Cells
- LowProfile™ Load Cells
- Multi-Axis Load Cells
- Torque Transducers
- Wireless Telemetry Systems
- Instrumentation & Amplifiers
- Data Acquisition Systems
Interface’s precision force and torque sensors play a vital role in advancing drone technology across various fields. From enabling seamless drone light shows with accurate LED weight monitoring to optimizing propulsion systems and ensuring structural integrity for critical delivery and inspection tasks, our solutions lead innovation.
We excel in providing products that support the design, development, and continuous performance of drones, helping manufacturers push boundaries and reach new heights in aerial innovation. The wide range of applications in drone R&D, testing, and operational feedback makes Interface’s highly accurate and dependable force and torque measurement solutions the ideal choice for this rapidly growing global market.
Payload Management
Payload Management
In the aerospace industry, payload management is a process that monitors the proper handling and performance of payloads, which are considered any specialized cargo carried by aircraft, spacecraft, or satellites.
Interface load cells and measurement devices are engineered to provide accurate, real-time data on the forces acting on payloads throughout their journey. Interface products are staples for payload management use cases, from early design through testing to launch.
Payloads are subject to extreme forces during launch, in-flight maneuvers, and landing, making precise measurements and operation management a success.
Interface provides a range of products, standard and custom, to our aerospace innovators and engineers.
- LowProfile Load Cells
- Column Load Cells
- Miniature S-Beam and S-Type Load Cells
- Load Pins, Load Shackles and Tension Load Links
- Torque Transducers
- 2, 3, and 6-Axis Multi-Axis Sensors
- Calibration Grade Load Cells
- Data Acquisition Systems
- Digital Indicators
- Portable and Hand-Held Instrumentation
- Wireless Telemetry System Product
- Custom Load Cells
Whether monitoring cargo weight distribution or measuring structural stress during a rocket launch, our force sensor technology provides critical data for payload management aerospace applications.
Our measurement solutions offer key benefits for payload management applications, including:
- Ultra-accurate force measurements, ensuring that payloads remain within operational limits throughout the mission.
- Durable sensor technologies, from load cells to wireless instrumentation, are designed to withstand the extreme conditions of aerospace environments. They are built to last and offer long-term reliability.
- Real-time force measurement for payload management teams to adjust and take proactive measures if any issues arise during the mission.
- Customization and industry expertise are essential when collaborating with aerospace engineers and testing lab professionals to meet the specific payload measurement requirements, from size and weight to power constraints.
At Interface, our specialized force sensors meet the high standards required for all aerospace applications. The aerospace industry relies on Interface, a long-time, trusted supplier of force measurement solutions.
Launch Platforms
Launch Platforms
Force measurement in aerospace is critical during platform design validation and structural testing for launch preparation. Interface supplies advanced sensor technologies to aerospace test engineers and those advancing exploration and our capabilities beyond Earth.
Launch preparation uses precise force data to verify total vehicle weight and center of gravity, confirm load distribution across support points, measure hold-down and restraint forces, and evaluate structural deflection under static and simulated dynamic loads. A rocket needs over one pound of thrust per pound of weight to lift off. Large rockets can produce over seven million pounds of thrust.
Launch Platform Force Measurement and Testing
- Center of Gravity (CG) Verification
- Total Vehicle Weighing
- Structural Deflection and Compliance Testing
- Hold-Down and Restraint Force Verification
- Static Load Distribution Analysis
- Simulated Dynamic Launch Load Testing
- Umbilical and Quick-Disconnect Force Testing
- Wind Load and Environmental Stress Simulation
- Vertical Integration Force Monitoring
- Support Reaction Force Measurement
- Tension and Compression Structural Fatigue Tests
- Fueling and Propellant Load Weight Monitoring
- Platform Stability and Sway Analysis
Global commercial launch companies use Interface’s high-capacity load cells to test components, simulate operational stresses, and ensure pre-launch readiness, providing confidence that the rocket and payload are properly constructed for safe operations.
Interface Products Used in Launch Platform Tests
- High-Capacity and Jumbo LowProfile Load Cells
- Custom LowProfile Load Cells
- Multi-Axis Sensors
- Load Pins
- Torque Transducers
- Instrumentation
- Custom Solutions
Types of Launch Platforms and Pads Requiring Force Measurement Solutions
Modern commercial launch programs use several types of platforms, each requiring force measurement during design and testing.
Fixed pads are permanent, land-based launch structures such as those at Kennedy Space Center. Load cells validate structural loads, support reactions, and weight distribution during vehicle integration and testing.
Mobile launchers are transportable platforms used to move and support rockets during assembly, rollout, and erection. Force measurement ensures stability and verifies structural performance under operational loads.
Floating platforms for offshore launch systems are designed for flexible launch locations. Load cells help evaluate structural response and platform stability under wave motion, wind, and other dynamic forces during design and testing.
Interface Advantages for Platform Launch Testing Programs
Interface is world-renowned for our aerospace industry solutions. As a leading provider of high-capacity load cells and custom force measurement solutions designed to meet the rigorous demands of aerospace testing, the industry turns to Interface for accurate, reliable, and quality sensors.
Our high-capacity, high-accuracy sensors are designed to measure massive loads; some projects use our “million-pounder” load cells.
Custom mechanical designs for unique platform geometries are important. They require rugged, aerospace-grade sensors with high capacities and rugged flexure designs. Our analog, digital, and telemetry output options for real-time monitoring and integration are important to test engineers, and our calibration traceability aligns with aerospace and government standards.
With growing investment in commercial space, Interface solutions provide precise, reliable solutions for launch platform testing and preparation.
Ground Support Equipment (GSE)
Ground Support Equipment (GSE)
Ground Support Equipment (GSE) includes mobile and stationary hardware used to service, maintain, and maneuver aircraft. For aerospace engineers, ensuring GSE safety requires precise force and load tracking under stress. Faulty equipment can cause airframe damage or compromise ramp safety, so reliable telemetry is vital for monitoring loads, towing forces, and wear.
GSE includes power and environmental units like air starters and conditioners, non-powered equipment like luggage carts and stands, and heavy vehicles such as pushback tugs, fuel trucks, and deicers.
Interface load cells and torque transducers provide data to validate performance, ensuring ground systems handle high-tonnage aircraft, meet regulations, and prevent component fatigue. The ground support environment has strict safety standards where a failure can cause multimillion-dollar damage. Reliable force measurement is essential for safety, turning extreme loads into accurate metrics.
Interface Ground Support Equipment Solutions
Safe aircraft servicing depends on continuous data feedback to protect ground crews and aircraft from excessive force. As global aviation expands and introduces next-gen transport, accurate measurement sensors at mechanical joints are crucial. Interface offers load cells and instrumentation to measure forces and provide actionable insights for flight line operators.
Ground Support Equipment Sensor Applications
- Main Landing Gear and Airframe Jacking Verification
- Aircraft Towing and Pushback Tug Drawbar Pull Testing
- Cargo Loader and Lift Platform Weight Distribution
- Refueling Truck Boom and Hose Tension Monitoring
- Hangar Crane and Overhead Hoist Safety Loop Tracking
- Passenger Boarding Bridge Structural Load Monitoring
- Avionics Maintenance Stand Stability Analysis
- Helicopter Towing and Mooring Line Tension Validation
- Engine Transport Stand and Sling Load Verification
- Airstart Unit Compressor Drivetrain Torque Monitoring
- Deicing Vehicle Boom and Fluid Tank Level Weighing
- Hydraulic Power Unit Valve and Actuation Force Profiling
Managing ground support equipment is challenging due to the need for extreme accuracy in harsh environments with severe weather, vibration, and impacts. Legacy GSE units lack electronic tracking, meaning fleet upgrades require ruggedized sensor technologies that work in extreme outdoor environments and integrate seamlessly without altering the original hardware footprint. Interface solves these issues with high-quality, fatigue-rated load cells and instrumentation that capture the sensor output and integrate into existing ground support infrastructure.
Interface Products Used in Ground Support Equipment
- LowProfile Load Cells
- Miniature Load Cells and Load Washers
- High-Capacity and Fatigue-Rated Load Cells
- Tension Load Links
- Load Pins and Load Shackles
- Multi-Axis Sensors
- Sealed and Stainless Steel Load Cells
- Torque Transducers
- Hazardous Environments Sensors
- Digital Instrumentation
- Wireless Telemetry System (WTS)
- Handheld Receivers and Indicators
- Multi-Channel Signal Conditioners
- Data Acquisition (DAQ) Systems
- System-Level Calibrations
- Custom-Engineered Solutions
Interface force measurement and data acquisition systems allow engineering and safety teams to assess actual mechanical stress, calculate the true wear rate of lifting mechanisms, and enable ground crews to safely manage multi-ton aircraft while scheduling preventive maintenance based on structural reality.
Interface delivers the measurement stability and high-resolution data acquisition required to keep aerospace ground support equipment perfectly aligned with strict operational realities. The accuracy of data from our line of high-quality sensors is fed into fleet diagnostics and safety monitoring systems, which remain reliable over millions of operational cycles and across the most demanding outdoor airport environments.
Aerospace Applications
- Aircraft Engine Hoist Aircraft Lifting Equipment Aircraft Screwdriver Fastening Control Aircraft Wing Fatique Aircraft Yoke Torque Measurement Airplane Jacking System Airplane Simulation Airplane Static Stress Testing Crew Module Center of Gravity Force Testing for AI-Driven Aircraft Inflatable Space Habitat Jet Engine Thrust Test Landing Gear Joint Testing Mobile Launcher Platform (MLP) Parachute Deployment and Deceleration Testing
Planetary Sample Collecting Propeller Testing Reduced Gravity Simulation Rescue Helicopter Hoist Test Rocket Center of Gravity Rocket Structure Testing Rover Landing Gear Rover Wheel Torque Monitoring Satellite Deployment Space Dock Capture Ring Force Testing Spacecraft Repair Robot Spacewalk Simulator Vacuum Testing for Aviation Performance Wind Tunnel
Finding the Center of Gravity
/in Blog /by Brian JohnsonEven after more than a half-century in the force measurement industry, Interface continues to find new and innovative use cases for our precision products. Recently, we were approached by a customer who needed help finding the center of gravity in […]
Multi-Axis Sensor Applications
/in Blog /by Brian JohnsonFor more than 50 years, Interface has proven itself as the premier provider of load cells, with the most accurate and reliable products on the market. As the technical landscape has evolved, we have invested heavily in new technology to […]
Considerations for Fatigue-Rated Load Cells
/in Blog /by Brian JohnsonThere are many products that are made to serve a single or limited use. Needs for these types of products, often consumable, are immediate and buying decisions usually require limited research or comparisons. On the other end of the spectrum, […]
Launching Into Orbit With Interface
/in Blog /by Brian JohnsonInterface supplies force measurement solutions and services to help the world’s largest aerospace organizations in the design and test of space vehicles and ground equipment. We pride ourselves on the accuracy and reliability of our products, and it is our […]
Interface Displays Force Measurement Aerospace Applications at Space Tech Expo
/in Blog /by Brian JohnsonAs a leader in precision-based force measurement solutions serving the world’s largest aerospace and rocket makers in the world, Interface is proud to exhibit at Space Tech Expo 2019, May 20-22. Interface a trusted leader with 51 year’s experience in supplying […]
Better Data and Performance with Interface Multi-Axis Sensors
/in Blog /by Brian JohnsonThe increasing consumer demand for smarter and more sophisticated products is transforming design practices. Data-driven design is now at the forefront of product development and has become the catalyst to the explosion of sensor technology. Engineers require an increasing number […]
Taking Flight with Interface
/in Blog /by Brian JohnsonWhen the aerospace industry needs a force measurement solution provider, they’ve turned to Interface for the past 50 years. There is no room for error when it comes to the hardware that keeps airplanes and helicopters safely airborne, and therefore […]