E-Motion Newsletter - October 2021
ATI force/torque Sensors

Company News - October 2021

E-Motion would like to let our customers have a great selection of ATI sensors.
ATI Industrial Automation is the largest supplier of 6-axis force/torque sensors in the world. Thousands of F/T sensors are being used in a variety of applications such as:

  • Robotic part insertion verification of mechanical and electrical component assembly.
  • Deburring, polishing, grinding where robot is required to apply a constant force.
  • Force/torque feedback for manipulators in nuclear environments.
  • Physical rehabilitation and prosthetics research.
  • Product testing - such as steering wheel torque and automotive seat testing.




What is a Six-Axis Force/Torque Transducer?
A device that measures the outputting forces and torques from all three Cartesian coordinates (x, y, and z). A six-axis force/torque transducer is also known as a multi-axis force/torque transducer, multi-axis load cell, F/T sensor, or six-axis load cell.

What is included in a complete F/T System?

A complete F/T system consists of a calibrated sensor/transducer and a system interface.
The sensor measures forces and torques in the X, Y and Z axes. The system interface provides the signal conditioning and communication to the user’s system. Some sensors have interface electronics integrated into the body, while others require external hardware. In order to obtain a quote, a sensor, calibration, and system interface must be specified.

How do I Choose a Sensor?

Model selection is based on:

  • Load Magnitude
  • Size Requirements
  • IP Rating (Environmental Factors)
  • Accuracy & Resolution

How do I Choose the Correct Calibration for My Sensor Model?

To choose the correct calibration, consider the worst-case moment load that will be applied to the sensor. Typically, the moment capacity is the determining factor when choosing the correct sensor model and calibration range. In robotic applications, the worst-case moment load is typically a dynamic load caused by the acceleration of the robotic end effector. For this reason, you will have to consider the speed/power setting of the robot, as the speed/power setting normally determines the maximum acceleration. The loading case below can be used as a worst-case load assumption.



ATI Develops New Low-Cost Force/Torque Sensor - Axia80 Provides High Resolution with Outstanding Overload Protection


Like all of ATI’s Force/Torque Sensors, the Axia80 measures all six components of force and torque. The Axia80 is programmed with two different calibrations; the default calibration allows for a large sensing range during high-speed moves or while applying high force. The smaller calibration suits more delicate processes that require higher resolution and accuracy.

All the electronics are built into the transducer body, and the sensor connects directly to the robot controller. This keeps the unit’s cost down and footprint smaller, without sacrificing accuracy, resolution, or robustness. The Axia80 communicates through EtherCAT, Ethernet, or Serial/USB and is ideal for robotic assembly, grinding, and polishing applications.

To support a broad range of applications, the Axia80 Force/Torque Sensor is available in three different load ranges. The M8, M20, and M50 models have the same compact and lightweight dimensions and are named for their maximum torque ranges of 8Nm, 20Nm, and 50Nm respectively.




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