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Small in Dimension and Precise in Measurement

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The world of force measurement is vast. Interface products are used across industries and in a wide range of applications. From the measurement of minute forces in catheter stint testing to jumbo load cells for massive structural testing of rockets, Interface load cells provide highly accurate measurement no matter the size of the load cell.

One of the many benefits of Interface products is the extensive range of measurement capacities and dimensions we offer, including our Mini Load Cells used for small and precise measurements. Interface Mini™ load cells are ideal for light touch, weight, or limited space test and measurement applications. The Mini Load Cells provide remarkably accurate measurements like our LowProfile load cells. With capacities available as low as 0.11 lbf / 0.5 N and as high as 100 kN, there are various miniature load cells for testing and options for custom OEM solutions.

TIP: Explore your options with our Mini Load Cell Selection Guide

Typical applications for measuring tiny, accurate forces are within the medical, manufacturing, robotics, and consumer product industries.

Medical device manufacturers are working to provide handheld point-of-care devices for patients. Additionally, medical devices used within the human body must provide extremely delicate forces to achieve their intended purpose without harming the patient.

Take something that seems relatively simple, like a vascular clamp. These types of delicate instruments are used on heart valves. If they provide too little force, they cannot do their job. However, providing too much force could severely harm the patient. Medical device manufacturers of these surgical tools use miniature load cells to measure the clamping force to ensure precise accuracy to toe the line between too much and too little force, which is a very precise number.

In the pharmaceutical industry, very small load cells are crucial for accurately measuring the force applied to the pills (tablets) during the press marking phase and other manufacturing processes to ensure consistent dosage and tablet integrity.

With consumer products, precision force measurement is critical to various manufacturing processes and real-time monitoring. A load button load cell is the right size for testing the durability of a smart device by applying a force to the screen and measuring the amount of force the screen can withstand before cracking or breaking. Read: Touchscreen Force Testing App Note

A miniature load cell can measure the force required to open a food package. This information can be used to ensure that the packaging is easy for consumers to open and secure enough to protect the food from damage. In food processing, load cells measure the force applied to food during mixing, blending, and other processes to ensure consistent product quality and prevent damage to the food itself. For instance, load cells can monitor the force applied to a dough mixer to ensure the dough is correctly mixed without becoming overworked or tough.

MINIATURE LOAD CELLS FOR SMALLER, MORE PRECISE FORCE MEASUREMENT APPLICATIONS

CONVEXBT LOAD BUTTON LOAD CELL

ConvexBT Load Button Load CellThe ConvexBT Load Button Load Cell is superior to any other load button. Constructed from heat-treated stainless steel and environmentally sealed with integral temperature compensation. Learn more about ConvexBT on our YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/l4xEKNjKREw

  • 5 lbf to 1,000 lbf, 22.24 N to 4.44 N
  • Integral temperature compensation
  • Enhanced eccentric load rejection
  • Multi-point calibration
  • Integral load button
  • Minimal diameter

SMTM MICRO S-TYPE LOAD CELL

Model SMTM is the miniature overload-protected S-type load cell and is excellent to use where size is a constraint.

  • Capacity 5, 25, 50 lbf (20, 100, 200N)
  • It can be used in tension and compression
  • Micro-sized 3/4” x 3/4” x 1/4”
  • Excellent temperature compensation (0.005%/°F Temp Effect on Output)
  • Overload protected

SUPERSC S-TYPE MINIATURE LOAD CELL

The SuperSC is an economical general-purpose load cell with a high force in a compact design. The SuperSC is environmentally sealed and insensitive to off-axis loading. The proprietary form factor is 80% smaller and 50% lighter than other models of s-type load cells. READ: New Technical White Paper Analyzes SuperSC S-Type Miniature Load Cells

  • 25 to 1000 lbf (100 N to 5 kN)
  • High force in a compact design
  • Environmentally sealed
  • High stiffness
  • Low deflection

ULC ULTRA LOW CAPACITY LOAD CELL

ULC ULTRA LOW CAPACITY LOAD CELL

The Interface model ULC is the world’s most accurate ultra-low capacity load cell measuring loads from 0.1 to 2 N (10.2 grams to 500 gmf).

  • Proprietary Interface temperature compensated strain gages
  • Highest performance low capacity load cell in the world
  • Overload protected
  • Safe side load overload to 5X capacity
  • Low extraneous load sensitivity
  • Low-temperature effect on zero (0.002%/°F)
  • Tension and Compression
  • 5 ft integral cable included

MBP OVERLOAD PROTECTED MINIATURE BEAM LOAD CELL

Model MBP series load cells perform similarly to the famous Model MB series with the added safeguard of internal overload protection.

  • 5 lbf to 10 lbf
  • Proprietary Interface temperature compensated strain gages
  • 10x overload protection
  • Low height – 0.99 in (25.1 mm)
  • 0008%F temp. effect on output
  • 5′ Integral Cable (custom lengths available upon request)
  • NIST Traceable Calibration Certificate

SMALL AND PRECISE MEASUREMENT APPLICATIONS

SPECIMEN RESEARCH

In the medical industry, medical experts need the best equipment to research multiple specimens. In this case, a medical researcher needs to monitor the load force of their linear actuator that uses a needle to collect material from the desired specimen. Interface’s SuperSC S-Type Miniature Load Cell can easily be installed into the linear test stand. A needle with a gripper on the end is installed on the lower end of the SuperSC. As the needle is pushed to collect specimen material, the load feedback is captured using the 9330 Battery Powered High-Speed Data Logging Indicator through an SD card or another laptop. Read: Specimen Research App Note

AIRBAG CONNECTOR TESTING

Testing airbag connectors functionality is needed to ensure perfect deployment in case of a car crash. Eight to twelve connectors are installed in each vehicle, and tests must be made to clarify whether the connectors are working effectively. These connectors usually work when latched, but that does not ensure the electrical properties are performing. The amount of force needs to be tested to see when an electrical current is connected. Interface’s solution is to attach the WMC Sealed Stainless Steel Miniature Load Cell to the actuator of the test rig. The airbag connector is placed at the test rig’s bottom. Forces are applied and measured using the 9330 High-Speed Data Logger as the connector is pushed down to latch together. When connected to a computer, results can be logged, downloaded, and reviewed.

COBOT MONITORING SYSTEM

Collaborative robots, or cobots, are offering more manufacturing operations in the industrial packaging industry. Protective cages or fences are no longer needed for safety purposes, but safety testing is still required to ensure humans and robots can work together. Four 3-axis Force Load Cells (creating one 6-axis Force Plate) are installed between two metal plates at the base of the cobot. Interface suggests installing a 6-axis force plate under the cobot and two ConvexBT Load Button Load Cells in the pinchers of the cobot. If a human were to knock into the cobot or have any object stuck in the pincher, the cobot would sense the force measured from the load cells and be programmed to stop immediately.

Interface can serve a wide range of test and measurement applications from millions of pounds force to the most minute. If you want sensors with small, more precise measurement capabilities, please check out our miniature load cell selection guide.

Miniature Torque Transducers 101

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The demands for miniature force and torque measurement solutions are on the rise. Modernization of products along with complex, compact products requires small and robust test and measurement solutions.

Miniature torque transducers are small sensors that measure torque, or rotational force, in mechanical systems. They are used to monitor and control the torque output of motors, gears, and other rotating components. These mini transducers come in various sizes and designs, ranging from simple rotary sensors to complex multi-axis sensors. The range of options provide precise, real-time measurements for all types of torque measurement applications.

COMMON USE CASES FOR MINIATURE TORQUE TRANSDUCERS

  • Quality control: In many manufacturing and smart factory processes, miniature torque transducers can provide real-time measurements of the torque being applied by production machines and equipment, allowing for adjustments to be made as needed in instantly to improve product quality.
  • Performance optimization: By measuring the torque output of a motor or other rotating component, a miniature torque transducer can optimize performance, resulting in improved efficiency, longer lifespan, and reduced maintenance requirements.
  • Safety: In certain applications, it is important to monitor the torque being applied to ensure that it does not exceed a certain limit. This is particularly important in safety-critical applications, where excessive torque can lead to equipment failure and potential harm to people and property.
  • Research and development: Miniature torque transducers assist in testing and validating new products, processes, and technologies. By providing accurate, real-time measurements of torque, these sensors can help to improve product design and performance.

Miniature torque transducers are being used in an increasing number of applications, including in the production and design of automotive and vehicle components, for use with machines and lab equipment, in robotics and industrial automation monitoring, R&D of medical devices, and in testing viability, durability and safety of consumer products. Interface’s event, Taking Measure of Miniature Load Cells, explores the topic of using miniature measure devices.

Interface continues to add new types of miniature torque transducers to our expanding line of these sensor types. In fact, Interface has multiple U.S. patents for our MRT products and our proprietary overload protection designs.

INTERFACE MINIATURE TORQUE TRANSDUCERS

Proven by many Interface customers, our miniature torque transducers can provide valuable and accurate measurement data for a wide range of use cases and applications, making them an important device for engineers across all types of industries.

Robotic Surgery Force Feedback Solution Using Mini Torque Transducers

A biomechanical medical device company needs to test the force, torque, and tactile feedback from their robotic arm used for invasive surgery. A number of Interface’s miniature force and torque measurement products are used on this robotic arm. These include the ConvexBT Load Button Load Cell, SMTM Micro S-Type Load Cell, and the MRTP Miniature Overload Protected Flange Style Reaction Torque Transducer. Force results can be collected when connected to the BX8 8-Channel Data Acquisition and Amplifier, and viewed when attached to the a laptop. Read more about the results here.

Furthermore, the demand for miniature sensors is also being driven by the need for more cost-effective sensing solutions. With the cost of miniaturization decreasing, more and more companies are looking to incorporate miniature sensors into their products to gain a competitive advantage.

The trend towards miniaturization is expected to continue in the coming years, which will likely lead to further growth in the demand for miniature sensors including Interface’s miniature torque transducers.

Additional Resources

Anniversary of Interface Miniature Torque Transducers

Choosing the Right Torque Transducer

Flange Style Load Cells and Torque Transducers 101

Insights in Torque Testing Featured in Quality Magazine

 

 

New Technical White Paper Analyzes SuperSC S-Type Miniature Load Cells

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Interface recently introduced a revolutionary new miniature load cell, the SuperSC. The extremely compact design makes it an ideal all-purpose load cell with high accuracy measurement in an exceedingly small form factor.

The SuperSC (SSC) models are part of the Interface product line of shear s-cells. They are specifically designed as environmentally sealed and insensitive to off axis loading. This product is available in capacities ranging from 25 to 1000 lbf (100 N to 5 kN). The new SuperSC force transducer easily fits requirements for a high accuracy sensor that can be designed into components, equipment, and end products.

In our new technical white paper, Eccentric Loading Analysis for SuperSC S-Type Miniature Load Cell, Interface’s Raymunn Machado-Prisbrey, Design Engineer for OEM Solutions, provides an extensive review of the performance and capabilities of the new SuperSC.

The paper details FEA analysis performed on spring elements of equivalent capacity, in this case 250 lbs. Two eccentric load scenarios were considered: a full scale axially applied load with three degrees of misalignment and a full scale load applied to the edge of the element loading surface. Results of this analysis are available in the new white paper, available for download here.

Additionally, the new technical review highlights SuperSC data, misalignment analysis and edge loading, providing results and images of each test.

The Eccentric Loading Analysis for SuperSC S-Type Miniature Load Cell conclusion sums it up clearly. The Interface SuperSC S-Type Load Cell outperforms traditional s-type bending cells in output consistency and safety factor stability when loaded at three degrees of axial misalignment.

The SuperSC has a higher output change under edge loading conditions than the s-type design; however, linearity is much better and safety factor remains acceptable. S-bending cells are not capable of withstanding this level of edge loading from a mechanical standpoint.

You can also watch the recorded online seminar below to get the inside scoop on this revolutionary new product.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Interface Introduces SuperSC S-Type Miniature Load Cell

Superior S-Types Webinar Recap and New SuperSC

 S-Type Load Cells 101

Interface OEM Solutions Process

 

Taking Measure of Miniature Load Cells Webinar

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Interface force measurement engineers and solution experts host an online discussion focused on products used to withstand one or more conditions related to temperature, cycling, moisture, environmental stresses. Learn about Interface’s stainless steel load cells, environmentally sealed options, submersible test and measurement products, enclosures, wireless capabilities, load pins, intrinsically safe products. We detail solutions used for all types of applications used in industries that include medical device, aerospace and defense, industrial automation, infrastructure, maritime and general test & measurement. We discuss sensors models, capabilities, features and FAQs. We dive into use cases, tips, measurement know-how and OEM products.

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