Automation

On the Show Floor

Integral Torque Sensing Beats Lost Motion in Robot Geartrains

Schaeffler’s Nicolai Haemmerle on sensing torque without reducing torque.

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The open secret to industrial robotics is that linear, Cartesian motion is in fact driven by rotational motion at robot arm joints. Imparting that motion requires electric or hydraulic drive motors, and a torque multiplying geartrain for most industrial applications. To deliver the right amount of torque repeatability in robot motion requires torque sensing at the joints, sensors which themselves are subject to error and calibration issues. At Automate 2023, Schaeffler vice president of robotics Nicolai Haemmerle shows Jim Anderton a unique torque sensing system built integrally with a robot arm joint planetary gearbox. 

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Written by

James Anderton

Jim Anderton is the Director of Content for ENGINEERING.com. Mr. Anderton was formerly editor of Canadian Metalworking Magazine and has contributed to a wide range of print and on-line publications, including Design Engineering, Canadian Plastics, Service Station and Garage Management, Autovision, and the National Post. He also brings prior industry experience in quality and part design for a Tier One automotive supplier.