TORQUE SENSOR ASSEMBLY
Structure of the torque sensor
• Controller: Powerful signal processing allows the small signals to be digitized and processed
• Ferrites: The ferrite is an important element in order to direct the coupled magnetic field and thus to increase the efficiency of the sensor
• Sensor element: The magnetic field for the measurement is generated by planar coil inductances
• Sensor housing: Application-specific design of the sensor housing ensures that space requirements of customers can be met
Size and dimensions of the torque sensor
The dimensions of the sensor are dependent on the space requirements of the customers. Due to a modular construction kit, different customer requirements can be met. Small, precise dimensional changes can be made on the product in close collaboration with the customer. Suitable design and dimensioning of the mechanical and electrical interfaces will facilitate a smooth integration of the sensor into the customer application.
Signal and supply of the torque sensor
The sensor requires a 5V power supply. The power consumption is about 100mA at 5V. The output signal for the customer can be designed specifically. Standard interfaces already implemented (SPI, UART, CAN) can be customized.
Signal bandwidth of the torque sensor
The standard signal bandwidth of the sensor is 100Hz with a signal to noise performance of <0.1% FS. By adjusting the internal signal processing, the output signal can be adjusted up to 1kHz.Torque
Axial force
Bending force
Which forces can the sensor measure?
The dimensions and alignment of the measuring coils define which mechanical forces are measured.
We can provide a custom sensor design to customers who require measuring several force vectors; e.g. Torque and axial forces. In addition, bending forces can be determined by evaluating the measured data. The sensor technology is developed in such a way that different measuring tasks can be accommodated by making small constructional adaptations.
MEASURING CONDITIONS
Material of the test object
An important prerequisite for the use of the technology is that the measuring shaft is hardened, and it consists of a ferromagnetic material. During initial conversations, we will be able to recommend suitable materials for the waves and the hardenings. It is important to our customers that the measuring shaft and the sensor are well integrated and that the system is accurately coordinated. The dimensions of the shaft and the safety factor for overload determine the expected accuracy in the application.
Positioning of the torque sensor
An important factor for accuracy and robustness in the application is the correct dimensioning of the sensor housing and the inclusion of the sensor in the customer application. If possible, the sensor mount must be designed in such a way that the position of the sensor with respect to the measuring point allows for as little movement as possible. We therefore recommend attaching the sensor as close as possible to a shaft bearing or shaft support.
Distance between sensor module and target object
To achieve a reliable torque measurement, the sensor module does not have to touch the test object; the sensor can be up to 1mm from the measuring point. However, it should be noted that the distance from the sensor to the measuring shaft does have an influence on the measuring accuracy. The distance between the sensor and the measuring shaft dictates the sensitivity of the overall system. Therefore, the closer the sensor is to the measuring shaft, the greater the signal.
Multidimensional sensors
Depending on the measuring task and the requirements for measuring accuracy, multiple sensors can be used. The use of multiple sensors can gather sufficient information to be able to minimize extraneous measuring effects. In specific OEM applications, various sensors can also be integrated within one sensor module.
OPERATING CONDITIONS
Mechanical shocks and vibrations
Mechanical shock or vibration may affect the sensor signal, so it is important to properly mount and align the sensor. Appropriate measures in the design of the sensor enable us to recognize and limit the confusion factors during early stages of the development process with the customer. Proper mounting and positioning of the sensor is essential to achieve accurate measurement results in the application.
Operating temperature range of the torque sensor
The components of the sensor are chosen to meet most industrial requirements from -40 °C to 105 °C. Alternative components can be used, extending the temperature range to 125 °C.Coating the test object surface with chrome / lacquer
Coatings, oil, rust or dust generally have no influence on the measurement result. However, these factors must be examined in customer-specific tests on the customer wave and the specific application.