Industrial Automation

The high performance you’ve come to know and trust from Interface products are advancing industrial automation. Interface provides sensor technologies that support the growing requirements in manufacturing today. Our robust solutions are designed to drive productivity, efficiencies, and safety.

Contact an Application Engineer

Sensors for Industrial Automation Applications

Industrial Automation Overview

Sensors for industrial automation and equipment often perform specific tasks or processes that require custom solutions. With more than 50 years of experience in load cell design and other force measurement solutions, Interface works with manufacturing leaders to design the solutions that will meet solve their industrial automation challenges.

automation solutions

Since 1968, Interface has been the trusted world leader in force measurement solutions. From using miniature load cells to apply the exact force needed to press a design on a candy shell, to verifying accuracy of intricately machined parts using multi-axis sensors, we’ve provided sensors for industrial automation solutions to thousands of customers using in-stock or custom application-specific sensors. All Interface load cells use our proprietary alloy strain gages to produce the most accurate and reliable data possible, even in demanding industrial environments. From net weighing to stamp forcing on candy, we have the perfect solution for your automation system whether its a manufacturing facility, production site, or R&D lab. Our products work well in the bottle and package filling along with cranes, hoists, and stands.

robotic arms

Our products have been used in a manufacturer environment, for a robotic arm in a packaging plant. The customer wanted to measure the force and torque of the arm when it lifts items, and places them down again. They wanted to ensure the robotic arm was in working order to do the job efficiently and correctly. Interface created a custom solution using our 6A40 6-Axis Load Cell, which was installed at the wrist of the robotic arm. The 6A40 was able to measure all forces and torques (Fx, Fʏ, Fz, Mx, Mʏ, Mz). This load cell was connected to our BX8 8-Channel Data Acquisition System and Amplifier with BlueDAQ Software, where results were displayed, logged, and graphed.

drones

Drones are also an upcoming tool of technology that is being used in many different applications. For drones being used in delivering packages, it is necessary to make sure everything is in working condition so packaged goods can be delivered safely and on time. We used our WMC Sealed Stainless Steel Miniature Load Cells to measure the weight capacity these drones can take. A small shift or uneven weight distribution is possible when in mid air, and the propeller motors of the drone must be able to compensate for it. The WMC’s are installed at the gear legs of the drone, and the drone’s processor. It was able to detect the uneven shifts in weight and communicated these results to the customer.

Interface torque transducers are used to measure torque for putting a cap on a bottle capping and for mixing viscosity. Reliable measurements that can be reported to the customers system quickly is our forte.

Robots and Cobots

advancements in robotics

The field of robotics has witnessed remarkable advancements, revolutionizing various industries and transforming how we live and work. Robots and cobots are usually equipped with sensors, actuators, and sophisticated algorithms to perceive and interact with their environment. Interface sensors are utilized in designing, testing, and using robotics. Engineers turn to Interface for load cells, torque transducers, multi-axis sensors and instrumentation for testing and to embed into robots for real-time feedback.

Robotics and collaborative robots, often called cobots, have gained significant attention due to their ability to work alongside humans, enhancing productivity, safety, and efficiency in numerous applications. Cobots collaborate with humans in shared workspaces and are designed to work alongside human operators, supporting them in various tasks. These robots are designed to be safe, easy to program, and capable of adapting to dynamic environments.

Whether it’s crafting special transducers to meet your unique needs or creating fully customized sensors, instrumentation, and software systems, we collaborate closely as part of your team to ensure precision and satisfaction.

Interface Products Used in Robot and Cobot Applications

Robots and cobots are highly versatile and adaptable to changing production demands, offering enhanced efficiency and agility in manufacturing processes. As the field of robotics progresses, cobots are set to play a significant role in shaping the future of work, creating a harmonious synergy between humans and machines.

Robotics_InfographicPoster

Using Interface load cells and torque transducers in robotics offers several benefits. First, they can help to improve safety by detecting excessive forces or overloads. Second, they can help to optimize performance by providing feedback about the forces being applied by the robot. Third, they can enable more sophisticated control of robotic systems by providing real-time data about the generated forces and torques. Our miniature load cells are commonly used by robotic OEMs to provide control and feedback. Download our brochure to learn more.

AMRs

AMRs, or Autonomous Mobile Robots, are not your typical robots. They are self-driving, able to navigate their surroundings without a fixed path or direct human control. Their use of sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence to understand their environment and move around with unparalleled precision and efficiency sets them apart. This unique capability makes them a valuable tool in various industries, particularly logistics and manufacturing.

Several trends in AMR development fuel the need for more testing and measurement across various stages of the AMR lifecycle. The use of load cells, torque transducers, multi-axis sensors, instrumentation and wireless systems are on the rise, playing a pivotal role in AMR development and deployment. AMR applications will expand beyond logistics and manufacturing, venturing into healthcare, agriculture, and retail sectors. Specialized AMRs designed for specific tasks within an industry, like disinfection robots in healthcare or shelf-stocking robots in retail, are rising.

AMR Applications Using Interface Solutions

Gripping Calibration and Safe Object Grasping
Load Capacity Testing
Package Weighing
Center of Gravity (CoG) Detection
Payload Analysis
Docking and Alignment
Overload Detection and Prevention
Lifting and Stacking Tasks
Conveyor Belt Integration
Ramp and Slope Navigation
Battery Performance Testing
Long-Term Performance Monitoring

Interface Products Used for AMR Design, Testing, Manufacturing and Monitoring

Interface Load Cells are being used to measure weight and force. AMRs equipped with our Mini Load Cells can precisely determine the weight of objects they’re carrying. This information is crucial for ensuring the AMR is not overloaded and avoids tipping or damaging itself or its surroundings.

Multi-Axis Sensors are valuable when more data can help make better decisions for the AMRs use. Force data in robotics that have continuous movements often need precision to ensure safety and protect the robot. The data from a 3-axis or 6-axis data is best for complex engineering and data analysis. For example, AMRs can help with inventory control and tracking. Interface load cells are also valuable for knowing the exact weight of transported items.

Interface Torque Transducers provide valuable measurement output, which is helpful for AMRs with functions that involve grasping, lifting, and navigation. By measuring the torque applied to a robotic arm, the AMR can ensure a firm but gentle grip on objects it’s handling, preventing damage or dropping. In some cases, AMRs might use torque sensors on their wheels to detect variations in terrain or resistance, helping them navigate uneven surfaces or avoid obstacles.

By continuously testing and measuring performance through various sensors, developers can ensure AMRs are safe, reliable, and adaptable to real-world scenarios, paving the way for wider adoption of this technology.

Overall, the future of AMRs promises a more automated, efficient, and intelligent future for various industries. As technology evolves, AMRs will increasingly significantly transform work processes and create a more collaborative working environment. This requires a strong partner in that understands how sensor technologies support testing, measurement and performance monitoring. Contact us to learn more about Interface solutions.

Humanoid Robots

Robots are universal and often found in manufacturing, healthcare, aerospace, entertainment, automotive, industrial settings and defense related industries. As robots become more sophisticated, humanoid robots are going through rigorous testing to integrate into different industries to take on full responsibility of tasks and processes.

Humanoid robots are advanced robotics that are capable of embodying human actions, reasoning, and operations. Humanoids are created to mimic the human shape, aligning with the human-centric design of our world, from tools to building to homes. According to Goldman Sachs, the total addressable market for humanoid robots is expected to reach $38 billion by 2035. This growth is largely driven by the future demand in manufacturing, where robots can be employed for tasks like electric vehicle assembly and component sorting.

Interface load cells, torque transducers and multi-axis sensors are commonly used in the design and testing of all types of robots, including robotic arms, cobots and humanoids. Our sensor technologies are used to measure and monitor forces and loads experienced by various robot components, from compression commands to articulations of joints, even in testing the wheels that help them move.

Humanoid Testing Using Interface Sensor Technologies

Gait and Balance Testing
Manipulation and Grasping
Impact and Collision Testing
Joint Strength and Durability Testing
Actuator Performance Testing
Human-Robot Interaction
Environmental Adaptation
Task-Specific Performance
Predictive Maintenance
Safety Monitoring

These examples highlight the diverse range of testing applications where load cells, torque transducers, and multi-axis sensors are essential for measuring and analyzing the performance, safety, and reliability of humanoid robots

Our load cells are used to measure the forces exerted by robotic arms and grippers. Load cells measure reaction forces to analyze gait patterns, stability, and balance control during walking, running, or other movements. While torque transducers are used to measure the torque generated by motors attached to limbs.

Multi-axis load cells are growing in use with robotic engineers throughout the R&D phases for more measurement data to make smarter decisions in design and use of the robot. Multi-axis sensors measure acceleration and angular velocity during impact events to analyze shock absorption, structural integrity, and safety features. They are frequently used to measure the robot’s movements and responses to human touch or gestures to analyze interaction dynamics and responsiveness.

As humanoid robots become increasingly sophisticated and integrated into our lives, the need for precise and comprehensive test and measurement solutions is paramount. Ensuring the safety, performance, and reliability of these complex machines demands rigorous evaluation throughout their development and deployment.

The insights gained from load cells, torque transducers, and multi-axis sensors re instrumental in refining humanoid robot designs, enabling them to seamlessly navigate our world and interact with us in a safe and meaningful way.

Robotic Dogs

Autonomous robot dogs are highly advanced machines that are transforming the manufacturing industry. These specialized robotic innovations are being used to tackle complex challenges in production, maintenance, and logistics.

These versatile machines are designed to navigate intricate environments. They replicate the movements of real dogs, utilizing state-of-the-art sensors, cameras, and software, which enables them to perform tasks that require mobility, dexterity, and decision-making in dynamic conditions.

Interface products aid in the development and testing of robotic dogs, providing precise measurements for performance analysis.

By integrating Interface’s advanced force measurement technologies into robot dogs, manufacturers can achieve higher precision and functionality, enhancing the overall performance of their robots.

Types of Interface Products Used in Robotic Dogs

Load cell force data can help to adjust grip strength, ensuring they apply just the right amount of force without damaging either the item or themselves.
Load button load cells integrated into the robot’s feet measure ground contact forces, which are crucial for assessing stability and balance.
Multi-axis sensors capture complex force and torque data during dynamic movements, aiding in locomotion optimization and stress analysis.
Wireless instruments enable real-time data transmission, facilitating field testing and performance monitoring.
Mini Load Cells provide data to autonomously adjust their movement and force application when lifting or moving a component.

These technologies collectively contribute to evaluating stability, analyzing movements, assessing performance across terrains, and ensuring the robot’s long-term durability.

Robotics Dogs Use Cases in Manufacturing

Robotic dogs are already being deployed in manufacturing environments for various tasks, including quality monitoring, inventory management, security, and safety checks. The following highlights the use of robotic dogs in various manufacturing functions.

#1 Inspection and Monitoring: By utilizing Interface’s force sensors, robot dogs can be programmed to measure the forces acting on machinery or products, allowing them to detect subtle changes in force or pressure that may indicate potential issues.

#2 Object and Material Handling: Force sensors can be used to accurately measure the amount of force applied by the robot dog when it handles or manipulates objects. This ensures that delicate materials are not damaged and heavy items are handled safely.

#3 Predictive and Routine Maintenance: By integrating load cells and force sensors, robot dogs can collect valuable data that can be used for predictive maintenance. For instance, the sensors can monitor the performance of various machines in the facility, recording changes in force or load that may indicate wear and tear. This data can be analyzed to predict when maintenance is needed, preventing equipment failure and reducing costly downtime.

#4 Security Patrols: Robotic dogs provide continuous, mobile surveillance in diverse environments, enabling them to detect anomalies and navigate challenging terrains, thereby increasing security efficiency. They can patrol hazardous areas, reducing human risk, and are used in military, industrial, and private security settings for persistent monitoring.

#5 Hazardous Environments: Robotic dogs excel in hazardous environments by remotely navigating and inspecting dangerous areas, minimizing human risk. Equipped with sensors and cameras, they collect vital data from facilities, thereby enhancing safety and enabling informed decisions without requiring direct human exposure.

The combination of autonomous robot dogs and Interface’s advanced load cells and force sensors represents a powerful leap forward in the manufacturing industry. As the world continues to move toward more automated and intelligent manufacturing processes, the role of autonomous robot dogs will become increasingly critical, with Interface sensors playing a key role in ensuring precision and reliability.

AutonomousRobotDogs_InfographicPoster

Warehousing

Force measurement and high-capacity load cells are permeating advancements in warehousing and logistics. As distribution centers transition to fully autonomous systems, Interface provides the precision sensors needed to optimize throughput, ensure equipment safety, and maintain inventory accuracy in real time.

Precision force data allows facility engineers to monitor conveyor tension, prevent structural overloads in high-bay racking, calibrate automated picking arms, and manage the complex weight distribution of Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs). In an industry where speed and safety are paramount, Interface sensors provide the reliability needed for 24/7 operations. With options for seamless integration into PLC systems and wireless capabilities for moving machinery, Interface helps warehouse operators minimize downtime and maximize safety.

Interface Products Used in Warehousing Automation

LowProfile Load Cells
Miniature Load Cells
Load Pin and Load Shackles
Single Point Load Cells
Torque Transducers
Wireless Telemetry Systems
Digital Instrumentation & Signal Conditioners
Custom Solutions

Types of Automated Warehousing Systems Requiring Force Measurement

Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS) rely on rigorous testing of high-density vertical storage, which uses load cells to verify pallet weights before insertion, preventing racking collapse and ensuring crane stability during high-speed travel.

Conveyor and Sortation Systems need force sensors to monitor belt tension and drive torque to prevent mechanical failure, while integrated checkweighers ensure every package meets shipping specifications.

Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) and AGVs equipped with onboard load sensors manage payload distribution and prevent tipping during maneuvers, while also providing data to optimize battery consumption based on payload weight.

Robotic Picking and Palletizing use multi-axis sensors and miniature load cells provide “tactile” feedback to robotic arms, allowing them to handle delicate goods without damage and verify successful item placement.

Warehousing Applications

Racking Structural Integrity Testing
Load Limit and Monitoring
Conveyor Belt Tension & Friction Analysis
Automated Gripper Force & Pressure Validation
Pallet Weight Distribution & Stability
Moving Equipment Design and Performance Monitoring
High-Speed Checkweigher Accuracy Verification
AMR Payload Capacity & Center of Gravity (CG) Mapping

Interface is a global leader in providing the rugged, high-accuracy sensors required for the grueling pace of industrial logistics. Our sensors are designed for high-cycle life and environmental durability, ensuring consistent performance in temperature-controlled cold storage or dusty distribution hubs.

Grippers

For robotics engineers and automation system integrators, keeping consistent handling without damaging fragile items or dropping heavy payloads requires precise force measurement, tactile grip pressure, and multi-axis moment sensing. Unmonitored grip-force fluctuations can cause component damage, slip errors, cycle delays, or dropped parts, so empirical telemetry is essential.

The industrial automation sector demands rapid cycle times, sub-millimeter accuracy, and adaptive handling, where mechanical grip consistency directly impacts throughput. Precision force and torque measurement is central to feedback systems, translating contact pressures and accelerations into actionable data.

Interface load cells and instrumentation provide the accuracy needed to optimize grasp algorithms, confirm payloads, and protect tooling in continuous manufacturing.

Embedding high-performance sensors in gripper parts lets engineers map force profiles, assess motor linearity, and set overload thresholds. Interface’s standard and customized sensors provide continuous physical monitoring for cobots, delta arms, and gantries, ensuring end-effectors securely hold, orient, and manipulate payloads across operating conditions.

Robotic Gripper Sensor Applications Using Interface Products

Pinch Force Calibration
Clamping Force and Dynamic Pressure Validation
Collaborative Robot (Cobot) Tactile Contact and Slip Detection
Handling Force Profiling
End-Effector Grip Monitoring
Robotic Wrist Multi-Axis and Shear Vector Mapping
Holding Force and Dynamic Load Verification
Pick-and-Place G-Force and Inertial Payload Retention Testing
Component Insertion and Snap-Fit Feedback Monitoring
Non-Destructive Clamping Verification
Mechanical Wear and Friction Profiling
Coupling and Retention Latch Force Testing

Dynamic Acceleration, Mass Limits, and Multi-Axis Crosstalk

The primary challenge in gripper testing and measurement is capturing high-frequency tactile forces while the robotic arm rapidly accelerates, decelerates, and reverses direction. Dynamic inertia from high-speed robot maneuvers can generate parasitic forces that standard load cells misinterpret as gripping pressure or payload weight. Capturing true contact force requires miniature load cells with high natural frequencies and fast-response signal conditioning to isolate dynamic motion artifacts from real contact kinetics.

Compact Interface multi-axis sensors, mini load cells, and miniature load button load cells can fit directly into custom finger jaws, delivering clean, decoupled multi-channel telemetry to robot controllers and PLC automation loops.

Interface Products Used in Gripper Applications

LowProfile® Load Cells
Miniature Beam and S-Type Load Cells
Ultra-Mini Load Cells
Load Button Load Cells
Load Washer Load Cells
Reaction Torque Transducers
Data Acquisition (DAQ) Systems
Instrumentation and Signal Conditioners
IO-Link and Digitizers
Wireless Telemetry System (WTS) Transmitters
Custom and Complete Systems
OEM Force Sensors for Integration

Gripper Automation Must Be Precise

Without precise force and torque measurement, robotic gripper design relies on theoretical calculations, pneumatic readings, or trial-and-error, which overlook factors like friction, wear, surface compliance, and tolerances. Too little force causes slipping or dropping; too many risks damaging fragile parts. Real-time force feedback provides visibility for better adjustment, reducing waste and enabling safe high-speed assembly.

Interface provides compact form factors, high structural rigidity, and accurate measurement, all essential for reliable robotic end-effectors. Known worldwide for minimal deflection, excellent overload protection, and high signal fidelity, our load cells, multi-axis sensors, and digital instrumentation enable robotics manufacturers, machine builders, and systems integrators to create smarter, faster, and more adaptable robotic gripping solutions.

Additional Resources

Products Request a Quote Interface Product Guides

Industrial Automation Solutions from the IQ Blog

The Interplay of EduRobots and Accurate Measurement

December 26, 2024/in Blog /by Jamie Glass

As technology evolves, educational tools increasingly incorporate advanced robotics to enhance learning experiences at all levels. Educational robots are a class of intelligent humanoid robots representing the forefront of innovation. These EduRobots merge cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) with mechanical engineering […]

How Sensor Technologies Help Build Better Highways, Bridges, and Roadways

December 12, 2024/in Blog /by Jamie Glass

Interface load cells, load pins, instrumentation, multi-axis sensors, and torque transducers are top choices for those engaged in highway, roadway, and bridge infrastructure projects and testing. Sensors commonly measure the hardware used for transportation infrastructure products and structures. Driven by increasing industrial automation, rising demand for precision measurement, and stringent safety regulations, force, torque, and weighing solutions are necessary for ensuring safety, optimizing performance, and managing costs throughout the infrastructure lifecycle.

Why Use a Limit Switch in Force Measurement?

December 5, 2024/in Blog /by Jamie Glass

Limit switches can prevent equipment damage and enhance accuracy in force measurement. Interface TechTalk defines a limit switch and how these safety devices protect load cells, prevent overloads, and improve control in testing. Discover use cases for limit switches, including in aerospace testing, cranes, industrial automation and lifting heavy objects.

Transformational Warehouse Automation Relies on Precision Measurement

December 3, 2024/in Blog /by Jamie Glass

Interface force and torque sensors are advancing warehouse automation and optimization by providing critical measurement data for tasks ranging from robotic arm control to preventing overload in material handling equipment. Whether designing a humanoid package handler or establishing weight restrictions in mobility machines, accurate measurement is crucial for safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Learn more about Interface warehouse automation measurement solutions including load cells, torque transducers, load pins, multi-axis sensors and wireless instrumentation.

Retrofitting Factories with Measurement Solutions

October 2, 2024/in Blog /by Jamie Glass

Interface force, torque, and weight measurement solutions for retrofitting factories and modernizing manufacturing can significantly improve operations, efficiency, productivity, safety, and sustainability. Load cells, multi-axis sensors, and load pins can upgrade existing machines and equipment to provide sensor data for predictive maintenance, quality control, and improving durability.

Sensing the World of Load Cells and Accelerometers

October 1, 2024/in Blog /by Jamie Glass

Load cells and accelerometers are sensors with two different purposes in test and measurement. Interface load cells are perfect for measuring static forces with high precision. An accelerometer excels in detecting dynamic motion, vibrations, and impact. There are use cases for load cells and accelerometers to work together in a single advanced system. Interface can provide the force and measurement solutions for systems that measure force, weight, torque, acceleration, motion, and vibration.

Integrated Measurement Solutions Elevate Design and Enhance Functionality

September 19, 2024/in Blog /by Jamie Glass

Interface, a pioneer in load cell design, supports innovation by offering integrated measurement solutions that ensure the safety and reliability of machines, products, and processes in sectors including aerospace, energy, medical and healthcare, automotive, manufacturing, and industrial automation. Our sensor technologies are seamlessly integrated into diverse products and machines, from lifting equipment to consumer goods. This adaptability ensures that our solutions can be tailored to your unique requirements.

Load Cell Connection to USB Instrumentation Advances Measurement Applications

September 12, 2024/in Blog /by Jamie Glass

Interface offers USB instrumentation solution to connect load cells to digital devices. Using USB, load cells can seamlessly integrate with various instrumentation, such as computers, data loggers, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs), through a standard USB interface and compatible software. This digital connectivity eliminates the need for complex analog-to-digital converters and streamlines the data acquisition process. Learn about products, advantages, challenges and tips for using USB instrumentation.

Practical Engineering Tips to Design In Sensors

August 8, 2024/in Blog /by Jamie Glass

Interface offers engineering tips to create intelligent solutions that adapt, optimize, and safeguard operations when designing in load cells, torque transducers, and multi-axis sensors into equipment, products, and components. The first step is define what you are trying to solve and why you need a measurement sensor in your design. Review 0 helpful questions to guide you in the discovery and solution definition stage.

Measurement Solutions Advance Industrial IoT Success

August 1, 2024/in Blog /by Jamie Glass

Interface provides high-accuracy measurement solutions for Industrial IoT. Our Wireless Telemetry System (WTS) components drive adoption and innovation in IIoT, from cobot design to smart pallet inventory controls. Load cells, torque transducers, instrumentation, and DAQ systems evaluate force, torque, and weighing data to optimize IIoT in manufacturing, energy, agriculture, and other sectors.

Industry Solutions

Product Applications

Interface Guides

Custom Solutions

Company Overview

Industrial Automation

Sensors for Industrial Automation Applications

Industrial Automation Overview

automation solutions

robotic arms

drones

Robots and Cobots

advancements in robotics

AMRs

Humanoid Robots

Robotic Dogs

Warehousing

Grippers

Industrial Automation Applications

Additional Resources

Industrial Automation Solutions from the IQ Blog

The Interplay of EduRobots and Accurate Measurement

How Sensor Technologies Help Build Better Highways, Bridges, and Roadways

Why Use a Limit Switch in Force Measurement?

Transformational Warehouse Automation Relies on Precision Measurement

Retrofitting Factories with Measurement Solutions

Sensing the World of Load Cells and Accelerometers

Integrated Measurement Solutions Elevate Design and Enhance Functionality

Load Cell Connection to USB Instrumentation Advances Measurement Applications

Practical Engineering Tips to Design In Sensors

Measurement Solutions Advance Industrial IoT Success

Industry Solutions

Product Applications

Interface Guides

Custom Solutions

Company Overview

Industrial Automation

Sensors for Industrial Automation Applications

Industrial Automation Overview

automation solutions

robotic arms

drones

Industrial Automation Applications

Additional Resources

Industrial Automation Solutions from the IQ Blog

Interface Products used in Industrial Automation

2400 Standard Stainless Steel Low Capacity Universal Load Cell

A4200 and A4600 WeighCheck Load Cells

5400 Series Flange Style Reaction Torque Transducer

WMC Sealed Stainless Steel Miniature Load Cell

ConvexBT Load Button Load Cell

9330 Battery Powered High Speed Data Logging Indicator

CSC and LCSC-OEM In-Line Signal Conditioners

BX8-HD44 BlueDAQ Series Data Acquisition System for Multi-Axis Sensors with Lab Enclosure

All Products

Contact Us

Solutions

Services

News