The Year of High Performance Strength Measurement

In 2024, the increasing need for precision, automation, and data-driven insights across multiple industries will drive significant advancements in force measurement applications. As we enter the new year, several key trends will shape the future of how load cells and high-performance sensing shape our world.

In 2025, high performance and accuracy will be the focus. Industry demands more than just simple measurements. Precise, reliable measurement data is the driver of innovation and efficiency. Increasing complexity of product design, stringent testing requirements and the growing need for real-time performance monitoring increase the demand for precision data. Let's explore the top five trends in high performance force measurement in 2025.

miniaturization and wireless connectivity

Miniature sensors and wireless devices are not new trends, but they are constantly evolving. The demand for smaller, lighter and more portable force measurement devices is skyrocketing. This trend is driven by the need for integration into compact spaces and applications where traditional sensors are impractical. Wireless connectivity is also becoming increasingly important, allowing for remote monitoring and data collection during operation. Engineers are tending to adapt sensors to meet the needs of the Internet of Things (IoT), diverse connectivity and high-precision measurements in much smaller designs.

Mini and Wireless Trends for 2025

• The development of projects using miniature load cells with small and large capacities, such as our load button load cells and the SuperSC, meets the requirements of accuracy and durability in a miniaturized form factor.
• The increasing use of wireless communication protocols such as Bluetooth 5.0 and Wi-Fi 6 for seamless data transfer requires sensors that can “plug and play” in these environments. Review: Decoding Communication Protocols for Sensors and Instruments Webinar Summary
• The integration of force measurement functions into wearable devices and IoT systems (Internet of Things) for continuous performance monitoring and adaptation to customer requirements requires small and wireless measurement sensors.

Intelligent sensors and advanced analytics

Force sensors are increasingly being used for "smarter" purposes. The immediacy of data processing and monitoring of results is leading to more and more applications such as predictive maintenance. The data generated by these sensors helps optimize processes, improve product quality, drive inventions and prevent equipment failures.

Innovative applications with sensors and data trends to watch in 2025

• The increasing use of machine learning algorithms helps analyze force data and detect patterns and anomalies in research, development, testing and product design.
• The use of cloud-based platforms for measurement data storage, visualization and collaborative analysis via wireless, IO-Link– and Bluetooth sensor and measuring device connections is important in 2025. The sensors must be suitable for this type of use. Read our Wireless and Bluetooth® Selection Guide.
• The integration of force sensors into comprehensive systems provides a holistic view of performance, whether in terms of Robotic in the workplace or on devices that enable instant decision-making for performance.

Trust in traceability and standards

Sensor traceability is of paramount importance as industries strive for greater precision and efficiency in product development, testing, manufacturing and performance monitoring. Expect a renewed focus on standards, especially in regulated industries that demand higher quality standards and greater transparency.

Traceability and standards – trends to watch in 2025

• The end-to-end traceability achieved through careful documentation of the entire calibration process – from primary standards to final sensor calibration – creates confidence among sensor users. It ensures that every measurement is traceable to a known reference, which guarantees the accuracy and reliability of the data. The use of our Gold Standard Calibration Grade load cells and Interface’s new Gold Standard GoldNXT calibration and traceability software supports this trend.
• Accreditation and compliance require calibration laboratories to better comply with international standards such as ISO/IEC 17025. These Accreditation ensures that laboratories meet the highest standards of technical competence and quality management to ensure accurate and reliable force measurements. As components and products are sourced from all over the world, consistent measurement standards throughout the supply chain are critical for quality control.
• Trusted data based on the accuracy and reliability of a sensor will still be here in 2025. High-performance force sensors will be critical in pushing the boundaries of innovation in various fields. Ensuring precise force control in surgical robots, implantable devices and drug delivery systems to improve patient safety and treatment outcomes requires exceptional measurement solutions. Monitoring critical forces in aircraft structures, engines and control systems to improve performance, safety and reliability requires best-in-class load cells and torque transducers. As data-driven decisions become more common, trust in the accuracy and reliability of force measurement data is paramount.

New Applications

Force measurement is crucial for the development and use of new technologies in the areas of Robotic, Automation, additive manufacturing and 4D bioprinting. It detects anomalies and predicts potential failures in machines and equipment and enables proactive maintenance. These applications require precise control of forces and torques to ensure accurate handling, assembly and manufacturing.

Emerging Application Trends to Watch in 2025

• The integration of force sensors into collaborative robots (Cobots) is fundamental to safe and efficient human-robot interaction. AI based on data from load cells is driving the development of robotics. Precision impacts performance today and in future robot development.
• The use of force feedback in virtual and augmented reality applications for realistic simulation and training is increasing. Flight simulators, space habitat designs, eSportsequipment and venues as well as 3D modeling use continuous force feedback through integrated sensors to make the experience authentic.
• Sensors for underwater and difficult environments are increasingly used. Forces are measured in fish farming cages, anchor lines and other underwater structures to ensure safe and efficient operations, even under difficult conditions. Data on ocean currents, wave forces and underwater seismic activity improve our understanding of the marine environment. Read Hazardous Environment Solutions from Interface.

Growing importance of sustainability

The increasing focus on sustainability is also impacting the force measurement industry. Manufacturers need sensors that help them use less energy and use environmentally friendly materials. Force measurement data helps optimize processes and reduce waste, contributing to a more sustainable future.

Sensors in Sustainability – Trends until 2025

• Splash-proof zones and wireless force sensors that work without external cables or power sources are becoming increasingly common. Remote-controlled devices that contain a high-precision miniature sensor are ideal for windmills, offshore and coastal solar power plants Lifting devices.
• Recycled and recyclable materials are increasingly used and in demand. waste- and Water management for environmental sustainability become ubiquitous, the use of sensors for machines, gates, conveyor belts and other devices promotes faster adoption.
• Force measurement technology is essential for monitoring and improving energy efficiency. The increasing demand for clean energy sources is driving the expansion of offshore wind and marine energy projects. For example, force sensors in wind turbines optimize blade pitch to maximize energy generation, thus contributing to a more sustainable energy future.

Integrating high-performance force-sensing sensors into new products, retrofitting existing equipment, and building comprehensive systems that provide a holistic view of performance are key drivers of trends in 2025 and beyond. Whether it's robots in the workplace or devices that enable instant decision-making, sensor technologies are at the forefront of these advancements.

Interface is ready to support the demands, trends, continued growth and innovation. Our customers can use our tools and equipment to improve their products, processes and overall competitiveness by keeping pace with these important trends and advancements. Contact us to find out how we can help you take advantage of the trends that impact your testing projects and new developments.