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What are IO-Link Load Cells

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Interface continues to see a growing demand for using different communication protocols within our force measurement sensors and instrumentation devices. One of these protocols is IO-Link, which is a standardized communication protocol that enables bidirectional communication between the control system and the connected devices. It is frequently used in the field of industrial automation and IoT.

IO-Link is designed to connect and communicate between sensors, actuators, and other industrial devices with a higher-level control system. It runs over a standard three-wire connection, typically using unshielded industrial cables, and supports point-to-point communication.

Industrial automation and IoT are fundamentally reliant on digital transformation. Industry 4.0 requires the exchange and communication of information between sensor and instrumentation. IO-Link supports this requirement, helping to keep machines and facilities using sensors under control while improving their efficiency and productivity.

IO-Link can be used with load cells in industrial applications to enable enhanced monitoring, control, and diagnostics. Interface now offers customization of our most popular load cells with IO-Link capabilities.

Why Use IO-Link in Test & Measurement

  1. IO-Link is compatible with a wide range of sensors, actuators, and other devices. It provides a standardized interface, allowing easy integration and interchangeability of devices within an automation system.
  2. Real-time monitoring, control, and diagnostics is especially important in test and measurement. IO-Link enables this type of data exchange between devices and the control systems supporting the transmission of measurement data.
  3. IO-Link supports both analog and digital devices, making it versatile for a range of applications.
  4. With IO-Link, devices can be connected using a single cable, reducing the complexity and cost of wiring and simplifying installation and maintenance.
  5. Health and maintenance are important in testing. IO-Link supplies advanced diagnostic capabilities, allowing devices to report their status, health, and detailed diagnostic information. This is valuable for maintenance, troubleshooting, and reducing downtime.

Interface 1200 and 1201 Load Cell IO-Link Features and Benefits

The 1200 and 1201 Series IO-Link Load Cell Universal or Compression-Only are LowProfile load cells that are IO-Link compatible.

  • Proprietary Interface temperature
  • Compensated strain gages
  • Eccentric load compensated
  • Low deflection
  • Shunt calibration
  • Tension and compression
  • Compact size
  • 3-wire internal amp choice of 4-20 mA, ±5V, ±10V, 0-5V, 0-10V
  • Options include Base (recommended), custom calibration, multiple bridge, special threads and dual diaphragm
  • Accessories include mating connector, mating cable, instrumentation and loading hardware

For a complete datasheet of this product, go to the 1200 and 1201 with IO-Link product page.

IO-Link integration with load cells enhances the functionality and flexibility of weight measurement systems by enabling seamless communication, remote evaluations and diagnostic capabilities. It contributes to more efficient and reliable industrial processes where precise monitoring is necessary.

Weight and force monitoring: By connecting load cells to an IO-Link-enabled system, such as a PLC or a weighing controller, real-time weight data can be transmitted and monitored. The load cells measure the weight or force applied to them, and this information can be instantly communicated to the control system via IO-Link. The control system can then perform tasks such as weight-based control, process optimization, or triggering specific actions based on weight thresholds.

Remote parameterization and calibration: IO-Link allows load cells to be remotely parameterized and calibrated from the control system. Instead of manually adjusting the load cell settings at the device level, the control system can send the necessary configuration commands through the IO-Link interface. This feature simplifies the setup process, saves time, and reduces the risk of errors during calibration.

Performance evaluation and detection: IO-Link provides diagnostic capabilities for load cells, enabling the detection of potential issues or abnormalities. The load cells can send diagnostic information, such as temperature, supply voltage, or fault codes, to the control system through IO-Link. This data can be utilized for predictive maintenance, troubleshooting, or alarming in case of malfunctions.

IO-Link enhances the functionality, flexibility, and efficiency of industrial automation systems by enabling intelligent communication between devices and the control system.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Interface New Product Releases Summer 2023

Force Sensors Advance Industrial Automation

Interface Weighing Solutions and Complete Systems

Instrumentation Analog Versus Digital Outputs

 

Interface Introduces SuperSC S-Type Miniature Load Cell

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Interface has released its latest load cell invention, the SuperSC S-Type Miniature Load Cell. Interface’s new product is an s-type miniature load cell that offers capacities in a form factor 80% smaller and 50% lighter than other models of s-type load cells. It’s ideal for industry 4.0 applications.

The Interface SuperSC is an economical general purpose load cell with a compact design. It is perfect for all types of test and measurement applications in confined spaces and for OEM use cases with smaller product dimensions. The miniature sensor is also environmentally sealed and insensitive to off axis loading.

Designed by Interface’s engineer Raymunn Machado-Prisbrey, SuperSC comes in 12 capacities ranging from 25 to 1K lbf and 100 N to 5 kN. Six designs for international standards of measurement (metric) and six are imperial standards. They are environmentally sealed with an IP66 rating and offer high stiffness with low detection.

“S-type load cells have grown in popularity every year since their introduction in 1974 by Interface’s founder, primarily due to their design features and performance for use in diverse force measurement applications.” Mark Weathers, VP of Advanced Manufacturing and OEM Products

Due to its high capacity and compact housing, it is an ideal sensor for weighing and test machines, as well as in OEM product designs for ongoing performance measurement and monitoring. S-type load cells are some of Interface’s most popular products. The new product release of the SuperSC represents the next generation of the versatile Interface Mini product offerings.

“The SuperSC is the next generation of s-type load cells with the Interface’s distinguishable high quality, accuracy, reliability, and range of capacities, while also offering a more compact design and options for customization and embedding into products and machines,” said Mark Weathers, VP of Advanced Manufacturing and OEM Products

The Interface SuperSC is manufactured at Interface’s headquarters in Arizona. It has accessories and different build options, including a high-temperature rated version, fatigue rated, special calibrations, and it also can be pre-installed with rod end bearings. Interface also plans to introduce a submersible, IP68 rated version and a model specialized for load compensation.

The new Interface SuperSC S-Type Miniature Load Cell and review specification sheets and pricing are here.

Interface highlighted the product in the recent Superior S-Type Load Cells webinar recording.

PRESS RELEASE

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Superior S-Types Webinar Recap and New SuperSC

SuperSC S-Type Miniature Load Cell

Superior S-Type Load Cells Webinar

S-Type Load Cells 101

Superior S-Types Webinar Recap and New SuperSC

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Interface hosted a new online seminar, Superior S-Type Load Cells, to highlight the different models, capabilities, and features of this popular type of force measurement transducer. It also provided a terrific opportunity to showcase one of Interface’s latest inventions, the new SuperSC S-Type Load Cell.

Interface’s Raymunn Machado-Prisbrey, Randy White and Mark Weathers detail important topics during this essential force sensors event. The presentation focuses on various S-type products, an engineering perspective, use cases and applications, along with the news of the SuperSC product release.

S-type load cells, sometimes called s-beams, get its nomenclature from the “S” looking model of the load cell. The classification of this type of load cell is considered a miniature sensor. They are part of Interface’s extensive line of Mini Load Cells.

One of the clear advantages of this load cell, that Interface brought to market in 1974 through an invention by our founder Richard F. Caris, is that it can be used to measure tension and compression.

Common Standard S-Types Use Cases

  • Controlled tension and compression measurement applications
  • Proof loading
  • Fatigue and high cycle count tests
  • Material testing
  • Suspended weighing and platform scales
  • Rigs, cranes, and hoists
  • OEM systems
  • Test machine integrations

The “S” shaped load cell has mechanical attachments on the top and bottom. The strain gage bridge is located at center. Interface uses a Wheatstone bridge with proprietary strain gages in a bending configuration. This offers a more efficient inline package versus standard bending bridge sensors for improved off axis insensitivity.

Watch our latest webinar to learn more about the versatile miniature S-Type Load Cells and the news about our SuperSC.


As detailed in the webinar, one of the biggest benefits is the scalable design that can accommodate a wide range of capacities through material and dimensional changes. S-types gained their popularity with requirements for small form factors and precision. They are now some of Interface’s top 10 products.

Engineers and testing labs prefer Interface’s s-type sensors for:

  • Proven load cell form with Interface’s strain gages
  • High accuracy
  • Size and much smaller than typical load cells
  • Value and cost-effective solution
  • Flexibility to fit in limited spaces
  • Easy to integrate
  • Universal for tension and compression testing

S-types are used inline during loading. They feature threaded mounting holes, providing stability and accuracy in measurement. They are not designed to be used for moving or rotating test objects. S-types are used in individual use cases for testing rigs and machines, as well as OEM solutions embedded into a product for continuous measurement and feedback.

Interface has a wide range of specialized miniature s-type load cells including:

  • Sealed
  • Micro-size
  • Fatigue-rated
  • High-temperature ratings
  • Low height
  • Overload protected
  • Intrinsically safe

You can watch the entire online event here. You will be the first to preview the official launch of the SuperSC and how it is modern design, superior performance, and low cost are ideal for OEM solutions. Randy, Ray and Mark detail tips, FAQs and some innovative applications for s-type load cells.

We record all Interface webinars for your convenience. Be sure to subscribe to our Interface YouTube Channel so that you do not miss an event.

Superior S-Type Load Cells Webinar

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Interface force measurement engineers and solutions experts explore s-type load cells. We discuss the history, engineering perspective, models, capabilities and features of these specialized miniature load cells. Learn about use cases, tips for test and measurement applications and FAQs. Mark Weathers, Raymunn Machado-Prisbrey and Randy White unveil our latest new product, the SuperSC S-Type Load Cell. Find out about it’s unique features and design.

Read more

New Interface Multi-Axis Load Cells

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One of the common trends in test and measurement is the growing demands for better, more complete sources of data to provide relevant, accurate and viable information to make smart decisions. A significant step towards empowering our customers with more data capabilities is in the ever expanding 2-axis, 3-axis, 6-axis, and axial torsion multi-axis load cell product lines. These requests frequently come with requirements for reduced physical sizes, in dimensions, while keeping the same level of capacity and capabilities. All in the end goal of securing more measurement data.

The benefit of multi-axis is that they are designed to measure a multitude of forces and moments simultaneously with a single load cell sensor. These sensors provide multiple bridges that precisely measure the applied force from one direction with minimal crosstalk from the other axes. We can measure forces simultaneously in three mutually perpendicular axes, with the 6-axis load cells also measuring torque around those axes. Benefits are compounded when these sensors are paired with our data acquisition and amplifier systems that make graphing, logging and displaying data easy enough for any experience level.

As the demand for these products grow across industries, Interface continues to develop new configurations and total system solutions for new and unique applications. We are continuously adding to this line of products In fact, we recently added a few new series of multi-axis sensors aimed at covering a wider spectrum of product tests and custom measurement applications just this month. Included below is a list of the new products we’ve introduced in July, which provide more options to select a multi-axis solution right for your unique needs.

NEW MULTI-AXIS LOAD CELLS

3A40 3-Axis Load Cell

The Model 3A40 has three independent axes in a small package size. Capacities available are 2N, 10N, 20N, and 50N. The product is made from aluminum alloy so it is very light weight.  The 3A Series 3-Axis Load Cell is ideally suited to many industrial and scientific applications, such as aerospace, robotics, automotive and medical research. The load cell is provided in various capacity ranges and sizes with each of the three axes providing the same capacity.

3AR Series Round 3-Axis Load Cells

The 3AR 3-Axis Load Cell Series features a round construction, compact size and low crosstalk. The load cell is provided in various capacity ranges and sizes with each of the three axes providing the same capacity. We are happy to work with our customers design needs, providing a custom design if warranted for varying capacities (between X, Y, and Z), higher temperature capability, or OEM and private labeling if needed.

6A Series 6-Axis High-Capacity Load Cells

Interface’s 6A Series 6-Axis Load Cell measures forces simultaneously in three mutually perpendicular axes and three simultaneous torques about those same axes. 12 full bridges provide mV/V output on 12 independent channels. A 72-term coefficient matrix is included for calculating the load and torque values in each axis. Interface’s BX8 Amplifiers, which includes BlueDAQ software, greatly simplifies the data acquisition process. The new Models 6A225 and 6A300 are available.

Interface multi-axis load cells are ideally suited to many industrial and scientific applications, such as aerospace, robotics, automotive and medical research such as orthopedics and biomechanical use cases. In fact, their unique capabilities are helping the medical industry optimize prosthetic design via multi-axis testing. The energy industry is using Interface’s multi-axis products in wind tunnels, and the military is using them to test the center of gravity in aerospace and defense systems applications.

Multi-axis is the future of force measurement. More axes of data gives the users a better idea of the whole testing picture, which leads to better, higher quality products. We’re proud to be leading the multi-axis load cell trend and will continue to serve our customers with new products, and custom solutions designed for every need.

ADDITIONAL MULTI-AXIS RESOURCES

Dimensions of Multi-Axis Sensors Virtual Event Recap

Better Data and Performance with Interface Multi-Axis Sensors

Multi-Axis Sensor Applications

To learn more about our multi-axis product lines, check out the product page on our website at www.interfaceforce.com/product-category/multi-axis-sensors/. You can also call one of our application engineers to determine which product is right for your needs at 480-948-5555.

Here is the complete Multi-Axis Solutions brochure

Multi Axis Brochure

Contributor: Keith Skidmore, Custom Solutions Engineer & Sales Director

ConvexBT Load Button Load Cell Featured Online at Sensor Tips

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Interface’s newest product release, ConvexBT, is featured in the Sensor Tips, the respected online resource publication for electronics engineering challenges of today and tomorrow.

Featured in the post “How can a load cell force sensor be used in increasingly smaller end products?“  notes:

“A smaller form factor is frequently on the must have list for many next generation products. However, compromising performance is usually not an acceptable tradeoff. This is especially true in medical products such as force sensors where both precision and miniaturization are required.”

CLICK HERE TO READ THE COMPLETE SENSOR TIPS ARTICLE

As sensor requirements for force measurement are being utilized as miniature-sized components, the load button load cell ConvexBT is designed to give precision level performance in force measurement.  The new release is designed for accuracy and flexibility.

As shared in Industry Today, the ConvexBT capabilities far exceed what is available in these grow dimension requirements due to specifications to make devices and products more compact and convenient. Industries such as medical, industrial automation and products reliant on advanced communications technology need to validate these products with force-sensing solutions that can fit in confined spaces and provide extremely accurate data.

ConvexBT product comes in two different sizes: 3/8-inch, and 1/2-inch, which are all manufactured using 17-4 PH heat treated stainless steel. These options provide a wide measurement range from 10 to 250 lbf, a compensated temperature range of 60° to 160°F, and an operating temperature range of -40° to 175°F.

Additional specifications for ConvexBT include:

  • 2.00 ± 20% mV/V rated output
  • ± 0.25 nonlinearity as a percentage of full scale
  • ± 0.25 hysteresis as a percentage of full scale
  • ± 0.50 static error band as a percentage of full scale

Download the complete ConvexBT specifications datasheet and STP / CAD files here.

Check out introduction video for ConvexBT, the next generation in force measurement device.

Advancing Load Button Load Cell Capabilities with ConvexBT

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Demands for high precision testing utilized for compact designs and in confined spaces is growing. The requirements for quality, accuracy and most importantly reliability are what has driven the experienced engineers at Interface to create the newly released ConvexBT™ Load Button Load Cell product line.

The revolutionary design of the ConvexBT is a first of its kind load button load cell, providing better temperature resistance and more enhanced eccentric load rejection. Miniature load cells categorized as load buttons have been sensitive to off-axis, eccentric or misaligned loads. This means if the load is not exactly perpendicular to the surface it is resting on, the data could become skewed or inaccurate.

Interface designed the ConvexBT™ Load Button Load Cell to confine misaligned loads to the primary axis of the cell providing superior performance in comparison to similar products on the market in repeatability, better data and reproducible results.

“As technology advances, there is a growing demand to make devices and products more compact and convenient. This trend is happening across industries and is especially prevalent in medical, industrial automation and products reliant on advanced communications technology. To design and validate these products, our customers need force-sensing solutions that can fit in confined spaces and provide extremely accurate data. This is the driving force behind the development of ConvexBT, the next generation in force measurement device.” – Ted Larson, VP product management and marketing, Interface.

CONVEXBT FEATURES AND SPECIFICATIONS

The newly released ConvexBT product comes in two different sizes: 3/8-inch, and 1/2-inch, which are all manufactured using 17-4 PH heat treated stainless steel. These options provide a wide measurement range from 10 to 250 lbf, a compensated temperature range of 60° to 160°F, and an operating temperature range of -40° to 175°F.

Additional specifications for ConvexBT include:

  • 2.00 ± 20% mV/V rated output
  • ± 0.25 non-linearity as a percentage of full scale
  • ± 0.25 hysteresis as a percentage of full scale
  • ± 0.50 static error band as a percentage of full scale

Other load cell load buttons designs have also been extremely sensitive to temperature conditions. Interface has redesigned its ConvexBT ultra-precision product line of load buttons to ensure that this is no longer something the user has to account for by taking the sensing technology disrupted by temperature out of the cable, and designing it directly into the load button.

The new available ConvexBT models include the following capacities:

  1. ConvexBT Model LBSU-10 lbs 3/8″
  2. ConvexBT Model LBSU-25 lbs 3/8″
  3. ConvexBT Model LBSU-50 lbs 3/8″
  4. ConvexBT Model LBSU-100 lbs 1/2″
  5. ConvexBT Model LBSU-250 lbs 1/2″

Additional model capacities will be available this year.  You can view the complete product specifications as well as technical guide by visiting the product page here.

“ConvexBT was developed through a combination of intense research into growing technology trends in force measurement and actively collaborating with our customers to understand their unique challenges, By introducing the industry’s most advanced and versatile ultra-precision load button load cells, we are solving the test and measurement challenges associated with miniaturization of existing and new technologies.” – Greg Adams, CEO at Interface

The revolutionary ultra-precision line of ConvexBT™ Load Button Load Cells uniquely uses multi-point calibration for testing force on miniaturized products and within confined spaces where accuracy is paramount to success and safety. The requirements are critical to common buyers of miniature load cells, especially for use in medical devices, robotics and in industrial automation applications

In addition to its ability to solve test and measurement challenges with compact devices, another key benefit of ConvexBT is its versatility in that it can be used as a traditional test and measurement solution. It can also be installed into OEM components and devices as an advanced miniature sensing solution to collect accurate real-time force data on the product as it is in use.

ConvexBT is available now under the product family of Interface Mini® Load Cells. The product is part of a growing line of Interface Load Button Load Cells. The new ConvexBT model LBSU specifications are available here: /product-category/load-button-load-cells/.

Read more about Off-Axis Loads and Temperature Sensitive Applications here.