Investigation of round and square multi-axis sensors

Multi-axis sensors are transducers that measure force and torque simultaneously in multiple directions and convert these measurements into an electrical signal. Interface offers Multi-axis sensors Available in various capacities for high-accuracy measurement of 2, 3, and 6 axes. Two common shapes for Interface multi-axis load cells are round and square, each with different advantages and applications.

The growing popularity of multi-axis sensors is due to their ability to provide a complete and more accurate picture of force dynamics in complex systems with more data. They are particularly valuable in robotics, prosthetics, and quality control, where understanding multidirectional forces is critical for performance, safety, and precision. Read more in "Better data and performance with multi-axis sensors from Interface".

Advanced multi-axis sensors are test and measurement devices equipped with multiple bridges that precisely measure force from a single direction while minimizing or eliminating crosstalk from other forces or moments. Interface 2-axis, 3-axis, 6-axis, and axial-torsion load cells deliver highly accurate measurements for demanding applications that require more data than a single-axis load cell.

For example, instead of measuring force along a single axis, 6-axis load cells can collect data for forces (Fx, Fy, Fz) and torques (Mx, My, Mz) across multiple axes at a single point. This capability makes them indispensable for applications with complex loading conditions and when more sophisticated force and moment testing is required. Check out the BX8 Series 6A System to learn about the many benefits of combining Interface's 6-axis load cells with our advanced measurement instruments.

By integrating multiple measurements into a single compact unit, multi-axis sensors simplify mechanical design, reduce the number of required components, and reduce system weight and complexity compared to using multiple single-axis load cells. This all-in-one functionality not only saves space but also shortens setup time and reduces potential sources of error, making it a cost-effective and efficient solution for advanced engineering and testing applications.

Round multi-axis sensors from Interface

Round multi-axis load cells typically have a cylindrical or disc-shaped design. This design often allows for a more compact, flatter package, which can be crucial in applications with limited space. The radial symmetry of a round load cell can also be advantageous in certain setups. Here is a list of specific round multi-axis sensors from Interface:

• 1216 2-axis axial torsion load cell
• 1516 2-axis axial torsion load cell
• 2816 2-axis axial torsion load cell
• 3AFM Series 3-Axis Force/Torque Load Cells
• 3AR Series Round 3-Axis Load Cells
• 5200XYZ 3-Axis Force Moment Load Cell
• 5600 2-axis axial torsion load cell
• 6A Series 6-Axis Standard Capacity Load Cells – Fx Fy Fz Mx My Mz
• 6A Series 6-Axis High Capacity Load Cells – Fx Fy Fz Mx My Mz
• 6ADF Series 6-Axis Load Cells with DIN Flange
• AT101 2-axis axial torsion load cell
• AT102 2-axis axial torsion load cell
• AT103 2-axis axial torsion load cell
• AT104 Compact force and torque sensor
• TXY 2-axis force load cell
• NEW! 6A Series BX8 System

The 3 most important advantages of round multi-axis sensors

#1 Compactness – They often have a smaller footprint and are therefore suitable for installation in confined spaces.

#2 Integration – The smooth, round shape is easier to integrate into existing circular structures or components.

#3 Uniformity – The radial design provides uniform stiffness in all directions around the central axis, which is sometimes preferred in certain robotic or testing applications.

Applications for round multi-axis sensors

Energy pipeline inspection robot

The oil and gas industry is under increasing pressure to maintain its aging pipeline infrastructure efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively. With rising global energy demand, operators need more reliable, autonomous, and precise solutions for monitoring pipeline integrity, especially in remote or difficult-to-access areas. Pipeline robots have been developed for visual inspections. Interface's 6A6 40-axis load cell can be integrated into robotic components such as the arm, improving control, sensitivity, and feedback during visual inspections and maintenance work. These results can be logged, displayed, and measured when connected to Interface's BX8-HD44 BlueDAQ Series data acquisition system with the included BlueDAQ software. Read more: Robots for visual inspection of pipelines.

Other common applications for round multi-axis sensors

• Robotics in end effectors where space is at a premium and a low profile is required to measure the forces exerted by the gripper.
• Medical devices for surgical instruments or prostheses to provide haptic feedback and measure precise forces.
• Automotive testing for integration into steering wheel or pedal test benches to measure the forces exerted during vehicle development.

Square multi-axis load cells

Square multi-axis load cells have a cuboid or block-like shape. This geometry often simplifies mounting and alignment, as the flat, parallel surfaces allow the sensor to be easily attached to a platform or structure. Here are Interface's most popular square multi-axis sensors:

• 3A Series 3-Axis Load Cells
• 3A40 3-axis load cell
• AT105 Non-contact force and torque sensor
• NEW! 3A120 BSC4D System

The 3 most important advantages of square multi-axis sensors

#1 Mounting and Alignment – ​​Thanks to their flat sides and right angles, they are easy to mount and align with other components using screws or clamps. This is especially useful in systems with a grid-like or linear structure.

#2 Stability – The wide, flat base of a square load cell often provides excellent stability and resists rotation or movement under load.

#3 Modular design – They can be easily integrated into systems with other square or rectangular components, simplifying the entire design process.

Applications for square multi-axis sensors

Friction testing with 3-axis load cells

A testing laboratory wanted to replace two single-axis load cells in its friction testing machine with a single sensor that could measure the force on the x-, y-, and z-axes simultaneously. 3-axis load cell is mounted between the arm of the friction testing machine and the test specimen. BSC4D is installed between the 3-axis load cell and the PC laptop. Weights are placed on the arm to generate a downward force. The machine arm pulls the sample across the material lying on the bed. The 3-axis load cell measures the forward/backward force (x), sideways force (y), and downward force (z) exerted on the sample. The sensor's output signals are transmitted to the BSC4D and then to a laptop, where they are displayed using the included software. Read more: Friction test

Other common applications for square multi-axis sensors

• Aerospace testing in wind tunnel models to measure aerodynamic forces on wings or other surfaces where precise alignment is critical.
• Industrial automation through integration into production lines for quality control, where they measure the forces occurring during pressing or joining processes.
• Structural condition monitoring on bridges, buildings or other large structures for measuring forces and moments, where their geometry allows for easy attachment to a beam or slab.

For more information about Interface's multi-axis sensors, watch this video: