Interface’s technical webinar Engineered Solutions for Lifting details measurement devices used in lifting equipment, machines, and vehicles to improve operations. Interface load cells and instrumentation are used in operating cranes, for hoisting heavy objects, and measuring forces in infrastructure projects. Interface experts will provide answers as to how load cells are used in safety monitoring for lifting equipment. Learn about Interface sensor products suited for integration into existing equipment, as well as for test and measurement projects.
Interface recently hosted an online technical seminar that detailed product specification basics, key values, terms to know, how to read a datasheet, what specs matter most in force measurement applications.
For Interface, specifications are detailed descriptions that outline the characteristics, features, and qualities of our products, systems, or services. Product specifications are included on all datasheets, detailing product performance, capabilities, capacities and dimensions. Products have internal specifications that are tested against during manufacture, typically with full traceability.
Throughout the webinar Demystifying Specifications, Brian Peters and Jeff White offered important tips on what to consider for high-speed, durability, precision, and specialty product requirements. They highlighted what to look for on the product datasheet when choosing a load cell or instrumentation device. This includes variables in specifications related to expected performance of transducers and instrumentation based on frequency, environment, and other critical testing application considerations. They also answered the most frequently asked questions of our applications engineers related to specifications and datasheets.
Demystifying Specifications Webinar Topics
Specification Basics
Specifications and Values in Force Measurement
Decoding Datasheets
Detailing Product Specs for Load Cells
Detailing Product Specs for Instrumentation
Detailing Product Specs for Specialty Sensor Products
Interface provides four types of specifications for every product we make and sell: functional, technical, performance and design.
Functional specifications describe the intended functionality or behavior of a product, whether a sensor, instrument or accessory. They outline what the product or system should do and how it should perform its tasks. Functional specifications typically include applications, product requirements, and expected use case results.
Technical specifications provide detailed information about mechanical aspects of a product or system. They may include information about the materials, dimensions, technical standards, performance criteria, capacities, and other technical details necessary for the design, development, and implementation of the product or system
Performance specifications define the performance requirements and criteria that a product or system must meet. This is critical in force and measurement. They specify the desired performance levels, such as speed, accuracy, capacity, efficiency, reliability, or other measurable attributes. Performance can be defined by a specific range, with maximum standards for peak performance. Performance specifications help ensure that the product or system meets the desired test and measurement goals.
Design specifications outline the specific design criteria and constraints for a product or system. These specs provide guidelines and requirements related to the visual appearance and can also reference the model details found in a product’s engineering CAD STEP file.
Specifications Commonly Found on Interface Product Datasheets
Models based on Form Factor
Measuring Range (Capacity)
Measurement Units: US (lbf) Metric (N, kN)
Accuracy (Max Error)
Temperature: Operating Range, Compensated Range, Effect on Zero and Effect on Output (Span)
Electrical: Rated Output, Excitation Voltage, Bridge Resistance, Zero Balance and Insulation Resistance
Mechanical: Safe Overload, Deflection, Optional Base, Natural Frequency, Weight, Calibration and Material
Dimensions
Options
Connector Options
Accessories
Key Force Measurement Specification Terms to Know
Nonlinearity: The algebraic difference between OUTPUT at a specific load and the corresponding point on the straight line drawn between minimum load and maximum load. Normally expressed in units of %FS.
Hysteresis: The algebraic difference between output at a given load descending from maximum load and output at the same load ascending from minimum load. Normally expressed in units of %FS.
Static Error Band (SEB): The band of maximum deviations of the ascending and descending calibration points from a best fit line through zero output. It includes the effects of nonlinearity, hysteresis, and non-return to minimum load. Expressed in units of %FS. SEB Output is a best fit straight line output at capacity.
Nonrepeatability: The maximum difference between output readings for repeated loadings under identical loading and environmental conditions. Expressed in units of %RO. In practice there are many factors that affect repeatability that ARE NOT included in the nonrepeatability specification.
Creep: The change in load cell signal occurring with time, while under load and with all environmental conditions and other variables remaining constant. Expressed as % applied load over specific time interval. Logarithmic effect that is also symmetric on load removal. Stated specifications may differ and are not for the same time interval.
Eccentric and Side Load Sensitivity: Eccentric Load – Any load applied parallel to but not concentric with the primary axis. Results in moment load. Side Load – Any load at the point of axial load application at 90° to the primary axis. Error influences are reported in terms % and %/in.
Watch the event to understand why these specification details matter and some of the important variables to consider when comparing, using or troubleshooting different measurement products. During the event, we provided a list of resources that are helpful when looking for specification information or definitions. The complete list is below.
Interface ForceLeaders exclusive technical workshop takes place Tuesday, September 26, 2023, at the Sheraton Minneapolis West Hotel starting at 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by demos, Q&A and lunch from 12:00 to 1:30 PM. Our force measurement solutions engineers and regional experts will be onsite to share valuable tips and experiences using load cells, torque transducers, multi-axis sensors and advanced instrumentation. Register to join the conversation, come ready with your questions and learn the latest in sensor technologies from industry professionals.
Interface’s technical force measurement webinar Demystifying Specifications details descriptions, terms, values and parameters found in product datasheets for load cells, torque transducers, instrumentation and specialty products. Learn from our experts what specifications need critical review, recommendations based on product categories, and the insider point of view on what is most important in terms of specifications for different use cases and tests.
Interface hosted a technical seminar on the topic of data acquisition systems. With the demands for more data and faster processing with requirements to connect multiple devices in testing environments, there is an increasing need for high accuracy DAQ systems. Keith Skidmore and Dave Reardon detail the basics of DAQ, trends, products, software options and answer to questions in the webinar, Unlocking the Power of DAQ.
To start, a data acquisition (DAQ) system consists of hardware and software components designed to collect, process, and analyze data from various sources and convert it into digital format for further analysis and storage.
Components of DAQ Systems
Input: Sensors (Ex: Force, Torque), Digital Signals (Ex: DIO, Counters), Timing Signals (Ex: IRIG, GPS) and Serial Streams (Ex: RS-232, RS-422)
Signal Conditioning Circuitry: Excitation, Amplifier, Voltage Offsets, and Filters
Analog-to-Digital Converters (ADC)
Digital-to-Analog Converters (DAC)
Hardware and Software for processing, analyzing, display and recording
Output Signal: prior to ADC, after DAC, or even after processing
Analog data acquisition systems acquire and process analog signals. Analog signals can include sensors that measure load, force, torque, strain, temperature, pressure, voltage, current, and many other physical or electrical qualities. Digital data acquisition systems acquire and process digital signals. Digital signals can include on and off states, counters, serial streams, text data, video, GPS signals, and other advanced options.
Key Considerations for DAQ Systems
Features
Supported range of inputs mV/V, VDC, mA, partial bridge, encoder, pulse, frequency
Included software and related functionality
Form factor
Bench top, rack mount, portable, ruggedized and others
Sample rate
Connectivity
Power supply
Channel count and cost per channel
Interface DAQ Products
Interface offers a range of solutions for DAQ systems. The top products for DAQ include:
Watch the webinar and learn more about product options, software, applications and best practice tips.
https://www.interfaceforce.com/wp-content/uploads/Unlocking-the-Power-of-DAQ-800-×-800-px-1.jpg800800Jamie Glass/wp-content/uploads/Interface_White_Red.svgJamie Glass2023-06-19 09:58:512023-06-19 09:58:51Unlocking the Power of DAQ Webinar Recap
The world’s largest science and engineering competition for pre-college students, the 2023 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (Regeneron ISEF), took place in Dallas, Texas, May 14 – 19. Supporting the Society for Science and ISEF, the Richard F. Caris Charitable Trust II is a proud sponsor of this critical society and experience that focuses on the ingenuity students in STEM.
Richard F. Caris is the founder of Interface, Inc., a leader in force measurement solutions. The company started 55 years ago and continues to engineer and supply vital sensor technologies, including our renowned precision load cells. These precisoin measurement devices are used for testing and validation of global inventions across all industries, from robotics to space exploration.
Regeneron ISEF offers a prestigious platform that gathers the most exceptional young scientists and engineers from across the globe. This renowned competition serves as a catalyst for Regeneron and the Society for Science to champion and nurture the upcoming generation of talented STEM innovators. These brilliant minds not only generate groundbreaking ideas but also serve as catalysts for the transformative change required to enhance the well-being of individuals, society, and the planet.
By supporting and investing in these bright young minds, Regeneron ISEF and the sponsorship by Richard F. Caris Charitable Trust II continues to foster innovation and drive positive impact on a global scale.
Congratulations Physics and Astronomy, sponsored by Richard F. Caris Charitable Trust II Winners
Alexander Plekhanov from Portland, OR
Kaitlyn Wang from San José, CA
Kaitlyn Wang won first place for the entire ISEF competition and received the $75,000 George D. Yancopoulos Innovator Award for finding an efficient way to identify certain exoplanets that orbit very closely around their stars. As detailed by the ISEF announcement, previous techniques used to detect these ultra-short-period planets required enormous computational power but were not as effective at identifying these planets. Kaitlyn surmounted that problem by creating a special algorithm that runs on cheap hardware and results in much faster and higher-precision findings. Using her research, she says she found the smallest of these planets ever discovered.
Interface, on behalf of the Richard F. Caris Charitable Trust II, would like to congratulate Kaitlyn and Alexander, along with all the participants and winners of ISEF 2023. Interface supports the Society for Science and ISEF by also providing our Load Cell Field Guide, an essential resource for future scientists and engineers that use test and measurement to validate their inventions and experiments.
Through out the event Taking Measure of Miniature Load Cells, Interface product experts detailed specific applications and use cases for miniature force measurement devices. Interface’s Minis are commonly used across all types of industries from medical device testing to embedded sensors in machines to provide real-time system health and performance data.
After inventing the LowProfile load cell more than five and half decades ago, Interface engineers and founder first introduced the miniature s-type load cells in 1974. How does Interface classify a miniature load cell?
Miniature load cells are engineered for use in applications for light touch, light weight, or for less space.
Miniature load cells provide exceedingly accurate measurements similar to our full-size load cells with proprietary alloy strain gages.
Miniature load cells can measure both tension and compression.
Miniature load cells and torque transducers are available in a wide range of capacities and models.
Miniature load cells are not just small in physical size, they also have a range to test minimal forces with extremely high accuracy
Interface defines our trademarked Mini™ Load Cells as anything that isn’t a low profile load cell
The team also covered new products that provide extremely high accuracy measurement in very small envelopes, including our new SuperSC, ConvexBT, the popular WMC and MRT, along with our new Pillow Block Load Cells. They also highlight some of the special options, including wireless and submersible products. Throughout the recorded event, products were introduced to showcase the range and options available for miniature load cells and torque transducers, including:
Miniature beam load cells
Miniature load button load cells
Miniature load washers
Miniature tension and compression, compression only load cells
S-type load cells
Miniature sealed stainless steel load cells
Column rod end miniature load cells
Torque transducer miniatures
You can watch the entire event online on the Interface YouTube Channel. You don’t want to miss out on the answers to our most frequently asked questions, like do you can you calibrate a load button or can you make a mini load cell without cables (wireless)? They also give you the details on the smallest measurement capacity for a miniature load cell and the largest measurement capacity for an Interface miniature. Can you imagine a million lbf mini? Tune in to learn more and a special section on do and don’t tips.
Interface’s event, Ruggedized Test and Measurement Solutions, details various transducers, instrumentation and accessories that are designed to withstand environmental stresses and harsh conditions.
The types of testing use case that require ruggedized solutions are material testing, high and low temperature environments, structural and fatigue tests, high cycle count tests, any test for products exposure to moisture or humidity, pressure tests, as well as underwater and in-fluid tests. As noted, this applies to every industry, including maritime, aerospace, food packaging, consumer products, construction, medical devices and automotive.
Interface considers ruggedization as force measurement solutions designed and fabricated for use in extreme environments and applications, ability to operate within accuracy specifications while withstanding one or more environmental stresses or harsh conditions.
During this event, Ken Bishop and Elliot Speidell details the top factors when evaluating test and measurement products used in extreme environments, such as exposure to high or low temperatures, depth of submersion, moisture and water concerts, dust, and other harsh conditions. They present key questions to answer when evaluating your testing requirements, as well as top considerations.
These important evaluation subjects and ruggedized product factors are based on years of experience in collaborating with companies around the world. They define use cases and actual examples of Interface load pins, instrumentation, stainless steel load cells, enclosures and accessories used in all types of harsh and even hazardous environments.
Here is a quick preview of all the topics thoroughly discussed during this event.
Environmental Stresses and Harsh Condition Categories
Standards and Ratings
Structural and Material Options
Ruggedized Test and Measurement Devices
Sealed Products and Enclosures
Extreme Temperatures and Cycling
Exposure to Moisture and Submersibles
Test & Measurement Applications Using Ruggedized Products
The entire online seminar is now available on-demand. Watch it here.
These types of products follow strict certification standards and ratings. During the online seminar, Interface product experts detail the standards and ratings related to intrinsically safe products, sometimes referred to as hazardous location use, as well as solutions designed to meet safety, regulatory or compliance requirements.
The standard ensures that an intrinsically safe device is incapable of triggering combustion or igniting any gasses or vapors. The device is safe to use around dust and gas without risking static electricity or heat discharge from the device igniting the surrounding volatile gasses, powders, and liquids. Explosion proof applies to a device enclosed in a case that can withstand a gas or vapor explosion. Should there be an explosion, it will be contained within the enclosure.
Interface offers products with different IP ratings, including IP66, IP67 and IP68 applied to different transducers and instrumentation. Ingress protection (IP) ratings, which grade the resistance of an enclosure against the intrusion of dust or liquids ingress protection (IP) ratings, which grade the resistance of an enclosure against the intrusion of dust or liquids.
IP65 – Dust-tight, protected against water jets
IP66 – Dust-tight, protected against powerful water jets
IP67 – Dust-tight, protected against the effects of temporary submersion in water
IP68 – Dust-tight, protected against the effects of continuous immersion in water
What is the difference between IP66 and IP68? IP68 enclosures also provide dust-tight performance against solids. However, they are also rated for significantly better defense against water ingress than an IP66 enclosure. An IP68 enclosure can withstand submersion for over 30-minutes at up to a specified water depth.
Interface also has a range of instrumentation products that are NEMA, and IP rated based on the enclosure and housing designs. These include:
Interface offers standard and customized solutions. Contact our application engineers to discuss your options and how to ensure you have the right product to match the conditions of our test and measurement environment.
https://www.interfaceforce.com/wp-content/uploads/ruggedized-tm-1.jpg800800Jamie Glass/wp-content/uploads/Interface_White_Red.svgJamie Glass2022-11-16 02:18:522022-12-27 07:49:58Ruggedized Test and Measurement Solutions Webinar Recap
Interface and the Richard F. Caris Charitable Trust II extend an enthusiastic congratulations to all the participants and winners of the 2022 International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF). The 2022 Regeneron ISEF program provided a global stage for the best and brightest young scientists and engineers around the world.
Richard F. Caris Charitable Trust II sponsored the Physics and Astronomy competition for the 2022 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair. The 2022 ISEF prize winners in Physics and Astronomy are Ayush Nayak from San Diego, California, and Alexander Plekhanov from Hillsboro, Oregon.
As sponsors of this event, it is with great honor to continue the legacy of Interface’s founder and his commitment to supporting innovation through science, technology, engineering, and math.
In total, $8 million was awarded to the finalists of the 2022 International Science and Engineering Fair. Participants were evaluated based on their projects’ creativity, innovation, and level of scientific inquiry. The competition featured 1,750 young scientists representing 49 states and 63 countries, regions and territories across the world.
Richard Caris founded Interface in 1968 and pioneered innovation in force measurement, along with STEM initiatives, which has continued for more than five decades. His tradition remains active through the Richard F. Caris Charitable Trust II and women-owned business, Interface, Inc., leader in force measurement solutions. The Caris commitment to science is visible through the incredible contributions made to the Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab at the Steward Observatory on the campus of The University of Arizona.
Founded on the belief that advances in science are key to solving global challenges, Regeneron ISEF supports and invests in the next generation of leading STEM thinkers who are generating ideas and acting as catalysts for the change needed to improve the well-being of all people and the planet.
Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Society for Science announced that Robert Sansone, 17, of Fort Pierce, FL, won the $75,000 top award in the 2022 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (Regeneron ISEF). Other top prizes went to projects in the fields of energy storage, biomedical engineering, and robotics. In addition to the Top Award winners, 442 finalists received awards and prizes for their innovative research, including “First Award” winners, who each received $5,000.
For a full list of finalists who won awards, please visit HERE and HERE.
Interface is the world’s trusted leader in technology, design, and manufacturing of force measurement solutions. Our clients include a “who’s who” of the aerospace, automotive and vehicle, medical device, energy, industrial manufacturing, test and measurement industries. Interface engineers around the world are empowered to create high-level tools and solutions that deliver consistent, high-quality performance. These products include load cells, torque transducers, multi-axis sensors, wireless telemetry, instrumentation, and calibration equipment. Interface, Inc., was founded in 1968 and is a U.S.-based woman-owned technology manufacturing company headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona.
https://www.interfaceforce.com/wp-content/uploads/ISEF-Opening-Ceremony-montage-logo_Large.png21603840Jamie Glass/wp-content/uploads/Interface_White_Red.svgJamie Glass2022-05-20 14:54:212022-05-20 14:54:49Richard F. Caris Charitable Trust II Sponsors ISEF Promoting STEM
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Specifications Commonly Found on Interface Product Datasheets
Interface hosted a technical seminar on the topic of data acquisition systems. With the demands for more data and faster processing with requirements to connect multiple devices in testing environments, there is an increasing need for high accuracy DAQ systems. Keith Skidmore and Dave Reardon detail the basics of DAQ, trends, products, software options and answer to questions in the webinar, Unlocking the Power of DAQ.
The world’s largest science and engineering competition for pre-college students, the 2023 
Interface’s first event of 2023 focuses on a growing line of 
