Alpha Gear develops way to integrate force sensors into device housings

August 3, 2006 - Alpha developed a method to integrate torque and force sensors directly into the housings of its motion control solutions - from precision gear reducers to TPM integrated gear and motor products. The sensor technology allows for the most accurate measurement of torque, axial loading, and radial loading. The real time measurement of these performance criteria allow for more accurate process control by eliminating the inaccurate and cumbersome method of using motor current and a measured scaling factor (kt) to determine output torque. This direct method also eliminates and friction or splash losses normally associated with gearing. Having a way to measure the loading on an axis can help determine any changes to the process being performed. A change in material thickness will result in less or more force in a roll-feed application – this can be measured and accounted for. A change in material density will require a change in torque in bending or forming applications. Using advanced sensor technology in prototype or proof-of-concept machines helps the machine designers eliminate unknowns from their system by providing accurate and real-time feedback of what is happening in their process. This sensor technology can also be used to close the torque loop of a control system where the torque actually matters - at the output. Machine life can be accurately measured by determining the loads and forces present at the drive mechanism. Integrating sensor technology is just one more step alpha has taken as part of its MINI strategy – Miniaturization, Integration, Network and Intelligence. The TPM IQ intelligent servo actuator takes these points to an entire new level. Consisting of a high precision planetary gear unit, high efficiency – low inertia motor, high resolution encoder, thermal sensor, torque sensor, force sensors, and optional permanent magnet brake – all contained in a package half the size of standard servo motor. Installation is as easy as tightening down a handful of bolts. The sensors are set-up in advance with the motor and gearbox being provided as a single unit with no adjustment necessary. Simply plug in the cables, tighten them to the bolts and installation is complete.

Go to Wittenstein website
Learn More