Keywords
Citation
(2001), "Six-axis force/torque sensor system industrial automation/testing/polishing", Industrial Robot, Vol. 28 No. 6. https://doi.org/10.1108/ir.2001.04928fad.009
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2001, MCB UP Limited
Six-axis force/torque sensor system industrial automation/testing/polishing
Six-axis force/torque sensor system industrial automation/testing/polishing
Keywords: Force sensors
The Gamma compact monolithic transducer from Tatem Industrial Automation Ltd is accurate to 1 per cent of full scale and converts six component force/torque values into amplified analogue signals with a high signal to noise ratio. They are supplied pre-calibrated but can be easily re-programmed to provide a reliable and highly versatile plug-and-play system. Force and torque in X, Y and Z axes – in a single compact package (see Plate 7).
These ATI transducers have been successfully used to monitor and control both force and torque associated with the grip and touch functions used in the development of surgical prosthetics. However, technological progress presages the ever growing use of the products in general industrial robotic applications for design, manufacture, assembly, testing and inspection over a very broad engineering spectrum which includes the nuclear industry.
Plate 7
The Gamma compact monolithic transducer
Typical applications include:
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remote force sensing with nuclear telerobotics;
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real time force control;
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haptics feedback and prosthetic device testing and manufacture;
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robotic assembly;
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automotive and general engineering part testing;
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polishing;
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automotive seat testing.
The extreme high strength of the Gamma transducer permits maximum allowable overload values of 6.9 to 31 times rated capacities. The Silicon strain gauges provide signals 75 times stronger than conventional foil gauges, with amplified signals also benefiting from near zero distortion.
Three models are available covering sensing ranges of ±32 to 400N and ±2.5 to 10Nm. These can be stand alone units or computer interfaced, the latter providing 16 times greater resolution.
The products are manufactured from high strength aluminium with compact dimensions of approximately 75mm diameter 33mm height, and weighing only 255gm. They feature a removable adaptor plate to facilitate customised mounting requirements.
The transducers are supplied with a shielded high-flex cable and intelligent computer bus or standalone controller for data output rates up to 7,800Hz. This speed exceeds most robotic and data collection requirements.
Other transducers can be supplied in the range 12N/0.12Nm up to 3,700N/1,700Nm.
Details on the full range of force/torque sensor systems available can be obtained from Tatem Industrial Automation Ltd, Unit 1, New Chase Business Park, Shaftesbury Street, Derby DE23 8YB, UK. Tel: +44 (0)1332 204850; Fax: +44 (0)1332 204851; E-mail: info@tatem.co.uk; Web site: www.tatem.co.uk