Torque Defines Performance: Navigating the Future of Measurement

Explore how electrification and digitalisation are reshaping torque measurement, with smart sensors, high-speed analytics, and HBK’s next-gen innovation strategy.

Comparison of the dynamic range today and tomorrow with T110 stator and T100 rotors

The world of measurement technology is undergoing a seismic shift. The twin forces of electrification and digitalisation are transforming industries, from automotive and robotics to industrial production and research. As these sectors evolve, the demands on measurement technology, especially torque measurement, are growing in importance. This is not just a challenge; it is an opportunity to redefine what is possible, and at HBK, we are at the forefront of this transformation.

The evolving landscape: from analogue data to integrated intelligence

In today’s fast-paced environment, the value proposition is moving away from simple data acquisition. Our customers need more than just raw numbers; they need actionable insights, seamless integration, and intelligent systems that can drive smarter decisions.

The value of pure analogue or ‘data-only’ sensors is diminishing. Today, the focus is shifting to connected platforms that provide analytics and integrate signals into downstream systems.

We see this across all sectors. In the automotive industry, the push for electrification has led to a demand for higher speeds and greater accuracy in testing advanced drive trains and e-axles. In the industrial world, there is a clear migration from purely analogue sensors to ‘smart sensors’ with integrated features and digital interfaces like EtherCAT, Profinet, and IO-Link, even in lower-priced segments.

HBK’s blueprint for innovation

To meet these new expectations, we are not just following trends; we are setting them. Our innovation strategy is focused on four key areas:

High-bandwidth, high-speed measurement: delivering the performance needed for dynamic test rigs and advanced electric powertrains
Smart, self-diagnostic sensors: Integrating health monitoring and predictive maintenance analytics directly into our sensors to ensure signal integrity and reduce downtime
Miniaturisation: Developing smaller, more compact torque sensors for industries like robotics and cobotics where form factor is a critical design constraint
Integrated multi-measurement units: Combining torque, speed, power, temperature, and vibration into a single, efficient unit to provide a more holistic view of system performance

Innovation in action: the T100 series platform

This vision of innovation is not just theoretical; it is embodied in our recently launched T100 series. This new platform is more than an evolution; it is a leap forward that redefines the benchmark for torque measurement.

The T100’s completely redesigned front-end, with its exceptional 15 kHz measurement bandwidth, allows engineers to analyze ripple effects in e-motors and gearboxes with unprecedented clarity. Fully integrated fieldbuses like EtherCAT and Profinet support a purely digital signal chain, eliminating the accuracy loss of downstream electronics while providing real-time access to sensor health information and statistics.

Furthermore, we’ve tackled integration complexity head-on. The T100 platform’s ‘one stator fits all’ concept allows rotors and stators to be separately calibrated and freely combined, dramatically simplifying both mechanical integration and the calibration process.

The Bedrock of Leadership: Heritage Meets High-Tech

Our ability to innovate is built on a foundation of vast expertise and a unique market position. For over 60 years, HBK has been a leader in this field. This leadership is rooted in our comprehensive approach.

HBK delivers the complete spectrum of torque sensors, offering exceptional precision combined with calibration capabilities that are unique in the market. Most importantly, we are one of the few sensor manufacturers in the world that are also produce the heart of the sensor – the strain gauges.

This vertical integration, from the strain gauge to the complete digital measurement system, combined with our global footprint and unmatched high-precision portfolio, is why engineers feel confident choosing HBK solutions. It is also why we can confidently say that if something needs to be validated, it is validated against us.

Conclusion: charting the course for tomorrow’s torque

The pace of change will only accelerate. Looking ahead, we see a future driven by multi-sensor fusion, and the power of AI-enhanced signal processing. Sensors will become even more intelligent, with on-board analytics that increase measurement fidelity and deliver deeper insights.

Torque defines performance. At HBK, our mission is to define torque. Through restless innovation, expertise, and a relentless focus on our customers’ needs, we are not just participating in the future of measurement technology – we are building it.

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Torque Defines Performance: Navigating the Future of Measurement

The evolving landscape: from analogue data to integrated intelligence

HBK’s blueprint for innovation

Innovation in action: the T100 series platform

The Bedrock of Leadership: Heritage Meets High-Tech

Conclusion: charting the course for tomorrow’s torque

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