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Introducing the Interface Consumer Product Testing Case Study

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The global consumer products market is a multi-billion dollar industry that thrives on innovation and new product development. There are numerous opportunities to utilize sensor-based technologies to test for safe use and monitor product performance.

Interface is a source of quality precision force sensor technologies used throughout the product lifecycle from concept and R&D, through engineering and testing, to manufacturing and eventually consumption. We supply force measurement solutions for use in equipment, machines, tools, and integration into actual products like our miniature load cells to measure performance and use. We even provide products to accurately measure and monitor hardware used in consumer product distribution. Interface load cells and instrumentation help consumer product designers and fabricators drive usability, adoption, production efficiencies, and ensure safety to satisfy the needs of all types of consumers.

In our latest case study, Interface Delivers for Consumer Products, we highlight specific use cases and products that are used by the consumer products industry. Interface offers multitudes of products, from sensors used to measure weight on the production line of a consumer good to regulating how the consumer can use the product by using embedded load cells into the actual product.

Here are a few examples of how our force sensors are used in the consumer products industry:

  • Keyboards and buttons: Force sensors can be used to measure the force applied to keys on a keyboard or buttons on electronic devices, such as smartphones or game controllers, to ensure that they have a consistent and satisfying feel for the user.
  • Package testing: Force sensors can be used to measure the force applied to packaged consumer goods, such as food and beverage containers, during transportation and handling to ensure that they are not damaged and that their contents are protected.
  • Automotive testing: Force sensors can be used to measure the forces applied to various components of a vehicle during crash testing, such as doors and seat belts, to ensure that they meet safety standards and provide adequate protection for the occupants.
  • Sports equipment: Force sensors can be used to measure the force applied to sports equipment, such as golf clubs, tennis rackets, and baseball bats, to ensure that they meet performance and safety standards.
  • Wearable devices: Force sensors can be used to measure the force applied to wearable devices, such as fitness trackers, to ensure that they are durable and can withstand the wear and tear of daily use.

Our specialty is building force measurement solutions for the testing and monitoring of parts and total systems, which is vital to manufacturers and designers of consumer packaged goods. Accurate measurement is necessary in design, prototyping and producing final consumer products across all industries for performance and safety. These solutions are ideal for consumer product stand-alone testing rigs, production equipment, as well as embedding into products to increase operability and reliability for end users.

Additional consumer products applications utilizing Interface quality measurement solutions include:

These are just a few examples of how force sensors are used in the consumer products industry to measure the force applied to a variety of products. The use of force sensors is essential for ensuring that consumer products meet safety and performance standards, and for providing consumers with a high-quality user experience.

To better illustrate and address our solutions designed for consumer products across sectors, we have developed a case study outlining the consumer product testing challenges and technology we offer for these customers.
Interface Delivers for Consumer Products Case Study

Interface Solutions for Consumer Products

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Interface’s force measurement solutions affect every industry and all types of products. Chances are that the everyday consumer has purchased and used something evaluated with or utilizing an embedded force sensor.

In fact, Interface has a long history in providing load cells and sensor technologies to test and measure consumer packaged goods (CPG) and products. They are commonplace in early-stage prototype testing, all through final distribution. Most often, our force measurement solutions help predict failure and identify design challenges before goods are available to consumers. It is hard to imagine any product that would not go through rigorous test and measurement protocols before it goes to market. The liabilities are too great and consumer safety is paramount.

It is also critical to use accurate, quality sensors to gather reliable user data related to any consumer product. Product makers use sensor data to assess product usability, capabilities, and durability. The more data, the greater the opportunity to adjust and ensure the product is a direct fit. Precision in this process through data will improve the product’s performance and influence adoption.

From testing home health care devices to ensuring household appliances are safe and durable, Interface’s sensor measurement technologies have a vital role in R&D, design, production and packaging. Load cells and other sensor products are used for all kinds of testing, from material to fatigue, in the creation and manufacturing of everyday goods. They are growing in popularity to make products smarter and designed for IoT use.

Consumer Product Applications for Interface Force Measurement Solutions

  • Smart home devices
  • IoT solutions
  • Production line testing
  • Usability research
  • Safety and compliance
  • Regulatory and performance monitoring
  • Manufacturing robotics
  • Warehouse equipment
  • Food packaging
  • Toys
  • Gaming and simulation equipment
  • Electronics hardware
  • Sports equipment
  • Furniture
  • Capping and bottling machines
  • Real-time user feedback

We even provide products to accurately measure and monitor hardware used in intermediate goods, assembly equipment, and distribution. Our force measurement solutions are ideal for consumer product stand-alone testing rigs, production equipment, as well as embedded in consumer products to increase operability and reliability for end users.

Interface load cells and instrumentation help product designers and fabricators drive usability, adoption, production efficiencies, and ensure safety to satisfy the needs of all types of consumers. Here are a few applications notes to demonstrate Interface solutions utilized in the consumer products industry. Additional applications for consumer packaged goods and consumer products are found here.

Commercial Food Processing

A consumer food product processing plant wants to measure in-motion the food weigh as it is processed down the line. They want to ensure production line efficiency and food quality for future consumers. The customer also wants real-time results of their food being weighed to keep standards high and ensure quality product. Multiple of Interface’s SPI High Capacity Platform Scale Load Cells can be installed in the customer’s in-motion check weigher at the specific points where the food is weighed on the belt to deliver precise weighing results. When connected to the 920i Programmable Weight Indicator and Controller, real time results of the weight of the food being processed is available at all times. The 920i Programmable Weight Indicator and Controller can read up to four scale channels. Read more here.

Computer Touchpad Force Testing

A laptop manufacturer wanted to test their mouse touchpads to ensure it is functioning properly for future consumers, thus measuring the right amount of sensitivity during the consumer’s use. They also needed a system that measures the force it takes for the mouse pad to activate a response on the laptop. Interface suggested using the SMTM Micro S-Type Load Cell, from the Interface Mini™ line. The SMTM was installed in the customer’s actuator test rig. The SMTM recorded the amount of force it takes to press on the trackpad and create a response on different areas of the trackpad. An actuator aided with tactile feedback by providing movements such as dragging or creating friction. The measurements were captured using the 9330 Battery Powered High Speed Data Logging Indicator through an SD card, or another laptop directly. The SMTM Micro S-Type Load Cell was able to measure the forces applied to the mouse touchpad at various locations. Interface’s products successfully measured the forces needed to make the mouse touchpad create a response. Get more information here.

Furniture Fatigue Cycle Testing

To meet safety protocols in relation to the manufacturing of various furniture products, rigorous fatigue testing, shock testing, and proof testing before dispersion into the marketplace, and into the homes of consumers. Force testing on furniture products is critical in determining the posted max loads to protect manufacturers from liability due to damages that might result from the misuse of those products and overloading. Using Interface’s SSMF Fatigue Rated S-Type Load Cell along with Interface’s 9890 Strain Gage, Load Cell, & mV/V Indicator provides a solution that measures the force being applied in fatigue cycle testing of a furniture product, in this case testing the rocking mechanism in an office chair. Unlike other similar load cells, the SSMF is fatigue rated making it highly suitable for fatigue testing. Using this solution, the furniture manufacturer was able to obtain accurate data about the rocking mechanism the office chair as it was fatigue cycled into failure. Post testing, adjustments to the design to improve the safety and life of the furniture, ensuring product quality, and protecting the manufacturer from future liability. Learn more here.

Printer Cartridge Seal

An ink manufacturer wanted to ensure there is a proper seal between their ink cartridge caps and the cartridge body, for it to work effectively in their printers and for consumers buying it for themselves. A bad seal can cause leaks, clogging, and overall deficient performance for their printers. Interface’s solution was to measure the pressure exerted on the cartridge cap by installing the 3A120 3-Axis Load Cell under the plate during the automatic production line process. Results were logged, graphed, and stored when the customer’s PC or laptop is connected to the BSC4D Multi-Channel PC Interface Module with supplied BlueDAQ software. Using this solution, the ink manufacturer was able to determine the exact amount of force it took to seal their ink cartridge caps onto the cartridge bodies to prevent any leaks or clogging. Learn more here.

Interface solutions for consumer products are abundant. For every machine, test system and even many products themselves, these products benefit from a force sensor to improve product performance, prove reliability and more.

Additional Resources

Force Measurement is Reducing Waste and Automating the Consumer Packaging Industry

Applications for Consumer Products and Packaging

Load Cells for Consumer Product Applications

CPG Bike Handlebar Fatigue Testing

Interface Solutions in the World of Sports

CPG Water Bottle Dispensing and Weighing

CPG Treadmill Force Measurement

CPG Golf Club Swing Accuracy

CPG Gaming Simulation Brake Pedal

Interface Solutions in the World of Sports

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With our headquarters in the golf capitol of the U.S., it is easy to see why Interface test and measurement solutions rank top for engineers and golf manufacturers to test the force of golf balls, range equipment, clubs, and even the carts that roam the course. But our sensor technologies have a much broader reach, in both sport and geography.

Why is force measurement so heavily involved in the making and designing of sports equipment? It is obvious even by definition; sports are considered an activity involving physical exertion and skill in which an individual or team competes against another or others for entertainment.

The physical exertion often utilizes some type of apparatus, device, tool, material, equipment, or gear that requires measurement of tension, compression, or rotation. Every sport differs and type of testing also will vary, whether from initial fatigue testing or actual designing sensors into the fitness equipment like a treadmill.

Our force measurement sensors are used across a wide variety of sports equipment to evaluate performance, lifecycle, durability, and quality.

Our specialty is building high accuracy solutions for the testing and monitoring of parts and total systems that move and create force, which is vital to makers and product designers of sports equipment and machines. Our force measurement solutions are ideal for stand-alone testing rigs, production equipment, as well as to embed in sports products in order to increase operability and reliability for end users.

Interface force measurement solutions are commonplace in sports gear and equipment R&D labs, design houses, manufacturer test and production facilities. The range of products we provide is as broad as the variety of sport categories, both individual and team. This applies to products used by consumers, as well as by professional athletes, trainers, and pro sport teams. We also collaborate with several engineers and manufacturers that build exercise and training equipment.

Interface has a history of providing our low profiles, s-types and miniature load cells for testing products used in individual sports such as running, weightlifting, mountain climbing, skiing, skating, bowling, fishing and cycling. We have created solutions that measure force and torque for gear used by competitive team sports including football, soccer, hockey, rugby, tennis, baseball, water sports and more. We have even seen an extended use in tools and equipment used in auto racing and even esports, who are using our sensors to test the actual gaming devices like brake pedals, driving gear and touch screens.

Interface is a global supplier of load cells, torque transducers, multi-axis sensors, and instrumentation for sport and fitness equipment. Here a few examples of where Interface solutions were used to influence the design, test, quality, and user experience.


Fitness Equipment Testing

A premiere maker of machines used in training and gyms around the world needs multiple load measurement systems for their different fitness machines. These machines included elliptical, leg press, rowing machine, and the cable machine to start. They want to ensure the machines functioning properly to prevent injuries. It can also be used for trainers who want to conduct strength and endurance tests.  A combination of products such as the WMCFP Overload Protected Sealed Stainless Steel Miniature Load Cell, SSB Sealed Beam Load Cells, and AT103 Axial Torsion Force and Torque Transducers. Paired with Interface’s proper instrumentation, the forces can be measured, graphed, and displayed during the testing stage. Read more about these solutions here.

Golf Club Swing Accuracy

Golfers undergoing training or practice wanted a system that will monitor and record their striking accuracy and swing movement. Interface created a custom made SSB Sealed Beam Load Cell that can be attached in line with the golf handle. When a golf ball is struck, force measurements are recorded, logged, and graphed using the WTS-AM-1E Wireless Strain Bridge Transmitter. The results transmit directly to the WTS-BS-6 Wireless Telemetry Dongle Base Station when connected to the customer’s PC or laptop. Using this solution, the customer was able to successfully record, graph, and log a golf player’s striking accuracy and swing movement with Interface’s wireless force system. Read more here.

Mountain Bike Load Testing

A mountain bike manufacturing company wanted a system that measures their bike frames load capacities and vibrations on the frame. They want to ensure the bike’s high quality and frame load durability during this final step of the product testing process for their future consumers. Interface suggested installing Model SSMF Fatigue Rated S-Type Load Cell, connected to the WTS-AM-1E Wireless Strain Bridge, between the mountain bike’s seat and the bike frame. This will measure the vibrations and load forces applied onto the bike frame. The results will be captured by the WTS-AM-1E and transmitted to the customer’s PC using the WTS-BS-6 Wireless Telemetry Dongle Base Station. With this system, the mountain bike manufacturing company was able to gather highly accurate data to determine that their bikes met performance standards through this final testing. Learn more here.

 

Golf Ball Tee Testing Machine

A customer wanted to ensure their golf ball automatic tee mechanism is working for their consumers- both buying their tee’s for home use or for golfing ranges. They needed a system that will sense the presence of a golf ball, which will trigger and automatically dispense new golf ball to the tee. Interface’s WMC Sealed Stainless Steel Miniature Load Cell was installed within the golf tee, which would measure the golf balls pressure on the tee when loaded or unloaded. This load cell is electrically connected to the motor which initiates the cycle to release another ball onto the tee. Force measurements can be measured using the 9330 High Speed Data Logger when connected to the customer’s PC or laptop. With Interface’s products, the customer was provided a force solution that was able to measure the presence of a golf ball on their auto-tee machine. Get more information here.

These are just a few examples of Interface’s work in the sporting goods and fitness industry. If it moves, rotates, pushes, or pulls, chances are that Interface has a solution that can help perfect the performance. To learn more about our work in sports and consumer goods.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Interface Measures Fitness Equipment with Extreme Accuracy – Case Study

Why Product Design Engineers Choose Interface

Race Car Suspension Testing

CPG Treadmill Force Measurement

CPG Gaming Simulation Brake Pedal

CPG Bike Power Pedals

CPG Bike Helmet Impact Test

Mountain Bike Shocks Testing

Fine-Tuning Testing Solutions for Championship Racing Vehicles

Fitness Equipment Makers Require Extreme Accuracy

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Interface’s specialty is building solutions for the testing and monitoring of parts and total systems that move and create force. One of the industries where this is critical is the fitness industry. Equipment and fitness machines, whether designed for in-home use or in professional athlete training facilities, needs to perform safely and accurately.

Utilizing Interface sensors and instrumentation, the performance of different fitness apparatus is measured in various testing protocols throughout the product’s lifecycle. Rigorous tests are performed during each phase: R&D, design, manufacturing, and after-market use. These tests look at performance data, as well as measure reliability, durability, fatigue, and safety of the equipment. Manufacturers of fitness devices also utilize feedback from sensors to monitor user experiences in real-time. This means they need accurate data for all types of user profiles, strength variability, weights, and experience levels.

The global fitness market also needs a testing solutions partner as the industry is looking at solid growth over the next few years. In fact, Allied Market Research predicts that the fitness market will reach $14.8 billion by 2028, registering a CAGR of 3.3% year-over-year during this assessment period.

Interface recently captured a series of use cases for how our test and measurement products are used in the fitness industry for testing and in OEM applications. You can read the entire case study here: Interface Measures Fitness Equipment with Extreme Accuracy.

Addressing Challenges in Making Fitness Equipment

In the development of fitness equipment, a lot goes into the manufacturing and engineering process to ensure equipment is safe and reliable for users. Taking a treadmill as an example, the wheels that move the running surfaces must withstand varying speeds and levels of force over extended periods of time. This requires torque and stress testing. Additionally, the sensors on the handrails that send out a pulse to measure the user’s heart rate needs to provide accurate data in health and wellness uses. Manufacturers are looking to install sensors into their equipment that measure various forces and provide fitness data to the user, or data that doctors can use to monitor patients while working out. These makers and product designers for fitness equipment need sensors that can be easily designed into the product or customized to fit into existing products to enable smart functionality and IoT capabilities.

Interface Fitness Equipment Test & Measurement Solutions

Interface provides a variety of measurement solutions used by manufacturers and testing engineers in the fitness equipment sector. This includes our load cells, torque transducers, multi-axis sensors and miniature load cells, along with the popular wireless products and instrumentation. Our products have been used across a wide variety of fitness applications, including elliptical, leg press, rowing machines, bicycles both mobile and stationary, and physical training and therapy equipment. Interface sensor technologies are preferred by product design engineers in this field because of the precision, accuracy, range of options, and quality.

The following application notes examples provide an overview of how Interface serves the fitness industry:

Designing Fitness Equipment and Machines

A fitness machine manufacturer wanted multiple load measurement systems for their different fitness machines such as the elliptical, leg press, rowing machine, and the cable machines used in gyms of all types. The goal of designing sensors into the equipment is to ensure the machines are functioning properly to prevent injuries. The sensors can also be used for trainers who want to conduct strength and endurance tests. Interface provided a combination of products including the WMCFP Overload Protected Sealed Stainless Steel Miniature Load Cell, SSB Sealed Beam Load Cells, and AT103 Axial Torsion Force and Torque Transducers. Paired with Interface’s proper instrumentation, the forces can be measured, graphed, and displayed during the testing stage. Interface’s products all effectively measured forces needed for those working out or undergoing athletic training regiments. Not only did it ensure the designed machines were working properly, but it also helped those using them to track their endurance performance and consider future design enhancements based on consumer use. Read more about this use case.

 

 

Treadmill Rehabilitation

A medical device maker wanted a force measurement system for their experimental rehabilitation treadmill for patients that have pelvic mobility difficulties. For example, patients who have had strokes tend to have difficulty walking. Their goal was to measure the forces applied on the pelvis when the patient is walking on the treadmill and catch any pelvic deviations. The treadmill had a special harness with two actuators on either side of the patient when in use. Interface suggested installing two WMC Sealed Stainless Steel Miniature Load Cells to the actuators, which will measure the forces applied on the pelvis of the patient. Force results would be measured using the SI-USB4 4-Channel USB Interface Module, which could also be graphed and logged on the customer’s computer with supplied VS3 software. Using this solution, the medical company was able to catch different pelvic deviations in their experimental rehabilitation treadmill using Interface’s products. Learn more here.

Bike Power Pedals

A bike manufacturer wanted to evaluate the functionality of their power pedals. They needed a reliable system to measure how much force the cyclist pushes down onto the bike pedals, and they preferred a wireless system that can be paired with their computer to review data results. Interface suggested four Model SML Low Height S-Type Load Cells installed within the bike’s pedals. The four SMLs are paired with two WTS-AM-4 Wireless Strain Bridge Transmitter Modules, which will transmit the force data from the cyclist to the WTS-BS-6 Wireless Telemetry Dongle Base Station Dongle connected to the customer’s computer. The products Interface provided allowed the bike manufacturer to measure the pedal power applied by the cyclist. Read more here.

Interface load cells, torque transducers, and data acquisition systems are ideal for many fitness applications, especially those designed for IoT connectivity. Interface offers products that measure all types of force across the necessary fitness applications. Additionally, if we don’t have a product that works for your exact challenge, our custom solutions team will work alongside your design and test engineers to create the most effective and efficient solution based on the unique specifications.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Bike Frame Fatigue Testing Application Note

E-Bike Torque Measurement

Why Product Design Engineers Choose Interface

Golf Club Swing Accuracy

Golf Ball Tee

Users of Interface Test and Measurement Products

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Interface has a long history working with several types of users that rely on our products for test and measurement.

From pioneering engineers working in campus labs to ground-breaking scientists and innovators finding solutions to complex problems. We often share insights about the many industries that Interface serves and how our extensive line of products are used in a wide variety of applications within these industries.

In this Interface IQ Blog, we want to highlight individuals who use our products and discuss how they are used in various projects, programs, and testing environments.

We recently asked our customers how they utilize our products and here are their responses:

  • Calibration Equipment – 36%
  • Product Testing and Use in a Test Lab – 30%
  • New Product Design and Engineering Solutions – 25%
  • Products Manufactured into Original Equipment or Devices – 25%
  • Fatigue Testing – 20%
  • As Components of Other Products -16%
  • Experimentation – 14%
  • Education and Training 7%

Note that each responder chose all that applied in the survey.

Interface Product and Service User Types

Product Design Engineers

Product design engineers are involved from the very beginning of new production introduction (NPI). They are theorizing new products or product improvements, drawing designs, and developing prototypes. Force measurement plays a key role in NPI, enabling many different capabilities including automation, in-product performance monitoring, and more. These engineers benefit from Interface products because we offer top-quality performance, and we can uniquely customize our products and complete solutions to meet new product designs. Read our recent profile: Why Product Design Engineers Choose Interface.

Product Test Engineers

Product testing remains Interface’s largest user profile across industries. Interface provides various load cells, torque transducers, data acquisition instrumentation of all capabilities and capacities to create small and large testing solutions. We offer solutions for testing products, manufactured parts, prototypes, consumer goods, devices, OEM solutions and embedded components. We work directly with product testing engineers and test lab experts to supply standard, engineered-to-order, and customized solutions to fit into a test machines, rigs, and test benches. Often our products are designed right into the product to provide instant user feedback. Interface products are used to test everything from the structural integrity of an airplane to the minute forces of heart valve clamps used in open heart surgery. Product Test Engineers choose Interface due to the reliability and quality of sensors, along with precision accuracy.

Metrologists

Metrology is the science of measurement, embracing both experimental and theoretical determinations at any level of uncertainty in any field of science and technology. Therefore, it is all too common to find many Interface products within a metrology lab. Metrologists use Interface products to calibrate the machinery and tooling that will is frequently used during production and manufacturing. The relationship between Interface, metrologists and manufacturing engineers is an important one because each role in partnership ensures the quality of the products that leave the manufacturer’s doors.

Manufacturing Engineers and Production

Interface products can also be found within many of the machines, equipment, and tools on a manufacturing floor. These engineers will often use Interface products as embedded sensors or for process monitoring. With industrial automation, our sensor technologies are used to enable a machine to ensure certain robotics or automated functions are tuned correctly to provide the right amount of force. Some examples include packaging lines, bolt fastening, bottle capping machines in a soda factory or stamping machining that mark the minute symbols or logos on a pill. Manufacturing facility attendants also use force measurement to monitor machines in use. When force data is observed outside of a safe range, a manufacturing attendant may determine that a machine on the floor needs calibration or repair.

Educators

Another major customer of Interface are professors and lab techs in higher education facilities. Colleges and universities, specifically engineering departments often have Interface blue load cells and testing equipment onsite. Force measurement’s role is growing rapidly in STEM, as workforce demands seek out students experienced in R&D, engineering, design, mathematics, science and proving concepts. Therefore, professors are purchasing our products to give students hands-on experience with sensor technologies in early and advanced education. In fact, many young students today have exposure to products tested or using active sensors as part of their functions, like tablet displays, planet rovers, sports equipment, robotics, gaming brake pedals, rockets, and drones. Working together with academic institutions, we understand that having access to the best components helps develop future engineers as innovators.

This is a concise list of different people and titles we have worked with over the years. There are many more out there. Also, the use of force measurement sensors is growing rapidly in product design and development, so we expect this list to continue to expand. We are proud to serve such a diverse range of individuals, industries and applications and we look forward to what the future of force measurement holds.

Interface Helps Power the World

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As technology and infrastructure have advanced to accommodate various forms of energy collection, the role of force measurement in the test and manufacturing of these machines has grown significantly. As a precision force measurement solutions provider, Interface has been a long-time partner to these global production and equipment customers in the energy industry. Interface sensors are used in different applications for various sectors, including oil, gas, wind, coal, solar, hydro, geothermal, nuclear, renewables and emerging alternatives around the world, as detailed in our energy solutions overview.

As a pioneer of load cell technology, Interface is recognized globally for providing the most accurate and reliable force measurement solutions utilized by energy market leaders and suppliers of parts, machines and technologies used in the sector. Accuracy matters for safety and reliability in energy-related test and measurement projects, engineering and product design, and in the original equipment manufacturing of components that require precision sensor technologies.

Interface products are used in several different applications for the energy marketplace. In fact, Interface is recognized as the prominent oil and gas solutions provider of force measurement solutions. These companies within the energy industry recognize Interface for product reliability, accuracy, and innovative design, as detailed here: Interface Most Promising Energy Tech Solution Provider.

To meet the growing demands for best-in-class energy market solutions, Interface recently launched our new downhole force measurement solution for high-pressure, high-temperature applications, the Interface Pressure Compensated Downhole Load Cell (IPCD). The IPCD is a Wheatstone bridge foil-gaged-based force measurement solution using proprietary compensation methods and designed to provide highly accurate force data in harsh environments, like those found in the oil and gas industry, while requiring limited maintenance compared to similar solutions on the market. Read the new IPCD technical white paper here.

Another area that is growing tremendously are alternative energy applications. Recently, Interface has been involved with projects involving wind and water energy, as well as playing a significant role in testing batteries on electric vehicles. Also, our energy customers come to us needing a custom force measurement solution to deal with these unique challenges for all energy types including thermal, radiant, chemical energy, nuclear, electrical, motion, sound, elastic, and gravitational energy.

Types of energy industry applications that utilize Interface products, services and technologies include:

  • Oil and gas extraction equipment and parts
  • Hydro power generation
  • Windmill energy equipment
  • Wireline spool tension control
  • Fuel management and measurement
  • Solar panel testing
  • Hook load tension
  • Torque tong monitoring
  • Tool recovery and fishing
  • Wave energy generator
  • Downhole equipment
  • Plug setting
  • Calibration and equipment maintenance
  • Storing crude oil and natural gas
  • Transporting crude oil and natural gas
  • Wireless monitoring equipment
  • Activation of components and embedding sensors

We recently introduced a new solutions brochure on our energy solutions page.  Additionally, we have included a few application examples below to give you an idea of the type of work we do and the customers we serve in energy:

 

Wave Energy Generator

A scientist had been tasked to create electricity by using the energy that is generated by ocean waves. As electricity is generated by ocean waves, an Interface load cell was used measure tether line tension using a submersible 3200 Hermetically Sealed LowProfile® Precision Stainless Load Cell. The mooring line was attached to the load cell base and the platform generator was connected to the load cell hub. This measured the forces that were generated by the ocean waves and data was later analyzed by the customer’s Data Acquisition System (DAQ). Scientists used force data to make adjustments to the tether line. Also, if tether line breaks free, the scientist can be notified immediately to reattach the tether line.

Windmill Energy

A customer wanted to improve the performance of a windmill by adjusting the blade pitch and measuring the torque generated as power ramps are studied. Interface offered a T2 Ultra Precision Shaft Style Rotary Torque Transducer which can be coupled between windmill blade propeller and electric generator. Information is sent to customer’s Data Acquisition System (DAQ). Using this solution, the customer was able to use torque data to determine the optimal blade pitch for the windmill and generate more power with less stress on the bearings.

Interface has worked with market leaders and innovators in the energy industry for decades. As new forms of energy are developed, new force innovations are required to confirm and test accuracy and reliability. As well as enhancements to machines, parts, equipment and materials, Interface is a supplier of choice for standard, modified and custom solutions. Our sensors are embedded into equipment, as well as part of everyday monitoring of force and pressure.  To learn more about our work in the energy industry, visit our solutions page at https://www.interfaceforce.com/solutions/energy/.

Additional Resources

Interface Leads Innovation in Oil and Gas Force Measurement

Announcing the Launch of the Interface Pressure Compensated Downhole Load Cell

Interface Pressure Compensated Downhole Load Cell White Paper

 

Interface Plays a Role in Testing Bicycles

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Interface sensors are used in a never-ending list of products, from heavy machinery to miniature medical devices. In the spirit of the Olympics, we thought we would share how our force and torque technologies are used in the test and measurement of bicycles, whether used for extreme off-road racing or speeding around the track. Interface has a role in helping to get bikes on the road and performing at optimum speeds.

Road, mountain and e-bikes present a fantastic use case for our products because everything from the force a rider puts on a bike’s suspension, shocks and frame when sitting on it, to the torque of the pedals and tires need to be carefully tested before a bike is ready for action. In the application notes below, we outline different parts and kinds of bikes that utilize measurement testing in design and actual use, along with the specific Interface force sensors used in each case.

Mountain Bike Shock Testing

In this application example, when a manufacturer wanted to test the durability of the forks on the front of their bikes, the rear shocks, front suspension, and ensure that the bikes shocks absorption is working properly for bike riders, we had a solution. Interface suggested installing the 1000 High Capacity Fatigue-Rated LowProfile™ Load Cell in a fatigue frame using the company’s bike forks. The forks undergo a fatigue test for several hours. Test results from the 1000 High Capacity Fatigue-Rated LowProfile™ Load Cell will be sent to the INF-USB3 Universal Serial Bus Single Channel PC Interface Module where the customer can view, log, and graph the results on their PC computer or laptop with provided software. Using this solution, the customer was able to test the bike’s front and rear shocks using Interface’s products. They determined if there were any weak spots in the forks or if it was working properly.

E-Bike Torque Measurement

e) manufacturer needed to test the torque on their electronic bicycles. They also needed a torque sensing system that measures how much force the bike rider is pedaling onto the pedals, because this determines how much electric power the bike’s motor generates. To address this challenge, Interface suggested installing the Model T12 Square Drive Torque Transducer where the pedal assist sensor would normally be. The T12 Square Drive Torque Transducer’s results could then be recorded, graphed, and logged using the SI-USB4 4 Channel USB Interface Module when connected to the customer’s PC. This allows the e-bike manufacturing company to successfully test the torque on their electronic bicycles with Interface’s products and instrumentation.

Bike Power Pedals

For a bike manufacturer testing the functionality of its power pedals, Interface supplied a full wireless system solution to measure how much force the cyclist pushes down onto the bike pedals. The solution included four Model SML Low Height S-Type Load Cells installed within the bike’s pedals. The four SMLs were paired with our Wireless Telemetry System components, two WTS-AM-4 Wireless Strain Bridge Transmitter Modules, which transmit the force data from the cyclist to the WTS-BS-6 Wireless Telemetry Dongle Base Station Dongle connected to the customer’s PC or laptop. Interface also provided the software needed with their wireless products. Using this system, the bike manufacturer was able to measure the pedal power applied by the cyclist. The customer was also able to measure and log the data wirelessly transmitted to their PC computer.

Bike Load Testing

In this example, another mountain bike manufacturing company wanted a system that measures their bike frames load capacities and vibrations on the frame, and to ensure the bike’s high quality and frame load durability during the final step of the product testing process. Interface suggested installing Model SSMF Fatigue Rated S-Type Load Cell, connected to a WTS products, the WTS-AM-1E Wireless Strain Bridge, between the mountain bike’s seat and the bike frame. This measured the vibrations and load forces applied onto the bike frame. The results are then captured by the WTS-AM-1E and transmitted to the customer’s PC using the WTS-BS-6 Wireless Telemetry Dongle Base Station. Using this solution, the mountain bike manufacturing company was able to gather highly accurate data to determine that their bikes met performance standards through this final testing.

Bike Frame Fatigue Testing

Fatigue testing is critical for bike design engineers. Our customer wanted to perform a fatigue test on their bike frames and analyze the strength of their bike frames in order to ensure durability and high-quality standards, turned to Interface for a solution. We suggested installing Model 1000 Fatigue-Rated LowProfile™ Load Cell to the customer’s bike frame fatigue tester. This load cell provides the customer with highly accurate results through the fatigue cycling. These results are collected using the INF-USB3 Universal Serial Bus Single Channel PC Interface Module and displayed on the customer’s PC or Laptop with Interface’s provided software. With this solution, the bike manufacturing company successfully had their bikes undergo fatigue frame testing, receiving highly accurate results with Interface’s load cell and instrumentation.

This deep dive into bicycle testing is just the beginning in demonstrating how many applications of Interface products can be used to improve the quality and reliability of the final design. When you consider bicycles, testing is critical whether it’s being used in the Olympics, for recreation or even transportation. Bicycle safety is fundamental to any design. Testing the performance and durability are essential before any bicycle is approved to be used on the road.

For a preview of all the application we have and can possibly work on, continue following the Interface IQ Blog at http www.interfaceforce.com/blog/. Each month we provide analysis and insight on new and interesting use cases and application examples.

Interface Forms Partnership with Manufacturers’ Representative Hill and Company

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In a move that expands Interface’s ability and expertise in serving our customers across a wide range of industries in the Midwest, Interface today announced a new partnership with manufacturers’ representative Hill and Company.

Hill and Company brings more than 85 years of experience and expertise working with OEMs and other customers in the HVAC, computer, agriculture, defense, aircraft and electronic equipment industries to help solve technology-related challenges.

Based in Kansas City, Missouri with an expansive Midwest presence, the company will provide sales support for Interface, the leader in force measurement solutions, across Missouri, Kansas, Iowa, Nebraska and Southern Illinois.

“Interface has long been known as a premium provider of the most accurate and reliable force measurement equipment in the industry,” said Ed Hill, president, Hill and Company. “We’re thrilled to have the opportunity to sell Interface products across the many industries we represent. Our history in the Midwest serving a wide variety of manufacturing operations, combined with our ability to bridge the gap between customer needs and products, will ensure our partnership with Interface remains long and mutually beneficial.”

Hill and Company was founded in 1933 by Nathan Hill. The product lines the company sells includes a wide range of electronic and software solutions, including electronic controls, circuit boards, thermostats, flash storage, motors, transformers, power supplies, relays, and wireless software. Its lineup will now include more than 36,000 force measurement products, services and custom solutions from Interface.

Hill and Company will focus its efforts for Interface on leveraging new and existing relationships with OEMs and other customers across the Midwest to offer force measurement solutions that meet their evolving needs for test and measurement, sensor technologies and components.

Hill and Company has built its reputation with long-standing in the region on consistency, reliability and a wealth of knowledge related to technology solutions to addresses their most complex challenges. Interface welcomes Hill and Company to our tightly-knit global sales network, and look forward to working with them and their customers to deliver value, experience and expertise in the form of highly reliable and accurate force measurement solutions.

To locate a representative or distributor of Interface products, click here.

 

Applications for Consumer Products and Packaging

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When we think about force measurement and its relation to product development, we often consider the aerospace, automotive or industrial industry. However, many of Interface’s customers use load cells and torque transducers to test and develop machinery used for consumer products and in the packaging industry.

In order to meet this demand, customers need force measurement tools that are both accurate and provide the necessary data points to automate and regulate consumer packaging machinery. This consumer packaging case study takes a look at the wide variety of applications of force measurement tools used to create consistency and quality among the products consumer buy and use daily.

BACKGROUND

If you have ever wondered how a pill or piece of candy gets a little logo stamped on it without crushing it or how every bag of chips is nearly filled to the same capacity, chances are a load cell or torque transducer was involved. Interface works with hundreds of customers who manufacture a wide variety of machines used in the consumer packaging industry. These machines serve numerous functions including logo stamping, bag weighing, bottle capping, sealing, and precision cutting.

According to Grandview Research, the use of automation, as well as robotics throughout the packaging lines, has seen tremendous growth in recent years. The aim is to improve productivity, reduce the operating costs and prevent waste, thus improving the overall efficiency of the packaging systems. “Big Data” has also gained popularity with operation managers that collect machine data to regulate the performance of the machinery, undertake preventive maintenance and maximize the up-time.

CHALLENGE

The challenge our customers run into when building these machines is they require a high level of precision to get consistent and repeatable results. If the machines are incorrectly calibrated, it can lead to excessive waste. For instance, if a bottle of soda isn’t capped correctly, it can leak, or if the machine which embosses toilet paper and napkins is too forceful, the paper will be ripped to shreds. Currently, most packaging machines are relying on physical hard stops, clutches, monitoring motor current and laborious tasks to monitor and apply the necessary force and torque. To ensure proper performance and to reduce waste, the most accurate and reliable force measurement tools are required.

SOLUTION

Interface works with hundreds of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) who develop machines for the consumer packaging industry. Depending on the function of the machine, we manufacture a wide variety of force measurement products to help reduce waste, ensure repeatable results and provide accurate data to help consumer packaging customers automate their processes.

All of our products come with various data communication systems, including analog or digital and Bluetooth®, wireless or Ethernet. This provides customers with flexibility in their data collection methods and the ability to connect systems through the Internet of Things (IoT) functionality. For machines using a precision twisting motion, such as capping machines, we offer nearly 50 types of reaction torque transducers and rotary torque transducers for customers. All of our torque transducers are precision-machined and use our proprietary torque sensors for the most accurate data possible.

For precision weighing or stamping, such as the candy stamping application, we manufacture more than 60 different types of load cells and Interface Mini Load Cells. These load cells have capacities as low as 1 lbf (500 gf) for extreme precision. In our customer’s application highlighting candy stamping, a test apparatus was outfitted with the Interface Model WMC Mini Load Cell and a 9330 Data Logging Indicator to measure the compression force required to imprint the candy without crushing it and collect data to finely tune the process.

For applications using robotics, Interface offers multi-axis sensors to test force and torque measurements simultaneously in three mutually perpendicular axes.

RESULTS

Accuracy in packaging is a game-changer for cost-savings, production efficiency, time-to-market, and product safety. Whether you are measuring, weighing or securing, Interface load cells, mini load cells, torque transducers, and instrumentation can assure you the quality and accuracy you need to protect your brand and customer satisfaction.

Interface is one of the leading force measurement manufacturers for the consumer packaging industries. We work directly with OEM’s and engineering consultants to implement systems and products which help to reduce waste, automate the packaging process and provide accurate, repeatable results. For more information on how Interface can help solve your test and measurement challenges, please contact us to connect with our specialized Application Engineers, click here to locate a local Representative or International Distributor.

READ COMPLETE CASE STUDY HERE

Interface Case Study For Consumer Packaging