Our 6-Axis Force/Torque Sensor Models
Measuring Range: ±150 N (X/Y), ±200 N (Z); ±4 Nm (Mx/My/Mz)
Precision: 0.05 N / 0.001 Nm
Data Rate: Up to 2000 Hz
Size & Weight: Ø21×25 mm, 28 g
Interfaces: Ethernet, EtherCAT, RS-485, Analog
Protection: IP65 | Overload Capacity: 350%
Power Supply: 8–36 V | Power Use: 0.5 W
Measuring Range: ±600 N (X/Y), ±800 N (Z); ±15 Nm (Mx/My/Mz)
Precision: 0.2 N / 0.002 Nm
Sampling Rate: Up to 2000 Hz
Size & Weight: 78×60 mm× 28.5 mm height, 230 g
Interfaces: Ethernet, EtherCAT, RS-485, Analog
Protection: IP65 | Overload Tolerance: 350%
Power: 8–36 V input | 0.5 W consumption
Measuring Range: ±600 N (X/Y), ±800 N (Z); ±15 Nm (Mx/My/Mz)
Precision: 0.2 N / 0.002 Nm
Output Rate: Up to 2000 Hz
Size & Weight: 87×78×28.5 mm, 255 g
Interfaces: Ethernet, EtherCAT, RS-485, Analog
Connector: Anti-fall aviation plug | Protection: IP65
Power Supply: 12–24 V | Power Use: 0.5 W
Overload Capacity: 350%
Measuring Range: ±1000 N (X/Y), ±1400 N (Z); ±30 Nm (Mx/My/Mz)
Precision: 0.5 N / 0.004 Nm
Sampling Rate: Up to 2000 Hz
Size & Weight: 87×78×28.5 mm, 465 g
Interfaces: Ethernet, EtherCAT, RS-485, Analog
Connector: Anti-fall aviation plug | Protection: IP65
Power Input: 12–24 V | Power Draw: 0.5 W
Overload Tolerance: 350%
Measuring Range: ±3000 N (X/Y), ±4000 N (Z); ±150 Nm (Mx/My/Mz)
Precision: 1.5 N / 0.02 Nm
Sampling Rate: Up to 2000 Hz
Size & Weight: 142×126×49.9 mm, 1450 g
Interfaces: Ethernet, EtherCAT, RS-485
Connector: Aerial plug | Protection: IP65
Power Input: 12–24 V | Power Draw: 0.5 W
Overload Capacity: 350%
RS485 to 100M Ethernet converter for 6D force/torque sensors.
TCP/UDP support
Up to 2000 Hz data rate
Real-time IO alarms
Size: 70.8×55.35×24.65 mm, Weight: 73g
Operating temp: -10~55°C, Power: 0.5W
RS485 to EtherCAT converter for 6D force/torque sensors.
Fast, low-jitter data sync
Up to 2000 Hz output
Real-time IO alarms
Built-in filtering & signal conditioning
Size: 70.8×55.35×24.65 mm | Weight: 86 g
Power: 0.5 W | Temp: -10~55 °C
What is a Force/Torque Sensor?
A force/torque sensor is a precision measurement device that detects the amount of force and torque applied to it along multiple axes. Unlike single-axis load cells that measure force in just one direction, multi-axis force sensors—including 6-axis force/torque sensors—are capable of capturing complex interactions involving forces and moments in three-dimensional space.
These sensors are essential in applications where precise feedback and responsive control are required, such as in robotics, industrial automation, biomechanics, and research laboratories. For example, a force torque sensor for robots allows manipulators or end-effectors to interact more safely and accurately with their environment by sensing applied pressure and adjusting motion in real time.
Applications of 6-Axis Force Torque Sensors
Precision Assembly
In modern manufacturing environments—especially those involving tight tolerances and delicate components—precision assembly is critical.
Our 6-axis force torque sensors allow robotic arms to detect even the slightest contact force, ensuring accurate alignment and controlled pressure during insertion, press-fitting, or component fastening. This leads to higher product quality, fewer errors, and smoother automation of tasks traditionally performed by skilled hands.
These sensors are ideal for assembling components like shafts, bearings, springs, or mechanical parts in fields such as electronics, automotive systems, and micromechanics.
Screwdriving & Torque-Controlled Fastening
Force torque sensors play a critical role in robotic screwdriving applications by delivering real-time feedback on both axial force and rotational torque. This is essential for preventing thread damage, achieving the correct torque values, and ensuring repeatable results in complex assemblies. Whether in electronic device assembly, engine manufacturing, or battery pack integration, these sensors allow automation systems to detect obstructions, misalignments, or over-torque conditions, dramatically improving product quality and reducing defect rates. Their integration between the robot arm and the screwdriver tool makes them an indispensable component in modern automated assembly lines.
Force-Controlled Grasping & Insertion
In unstructured or dynamic environments—such as bin picking, part assembly, or packaging—robotic arms must adapt to uncertainties in object position, orientation, and shape. Our 6-axis force torque sensors enable robots to feel the contact force in all directions, improving the precision of grasping and insertion tasks. Whether it’s picking up soft components, aligning connectors, or inserting delicate parts into tight spaces, the sensor ensures compliant motion and damage-free handling. This application is vital in logistics automation, medical device assembly, electronics production, and collaborative robotics.
Wind Tunnel Testing
In wind tunnel testing, understanding the forces acting on a model is critical for optimizing design and performance. Our 6-axis force torque sensors deliver high-resolution, real-time measurement of lift, drag, side forces, and moments. This allows engineers and researchers to precisely evaluate the aerodynamic behavior of aircraft, vehicles, drones, or structural prototypes under various flow conditions. The sensors are widely used in aerospace engineering, automotive development, academic R&D, and simulation labs, where precision and reliability are essential.
Robot Hand Guiding & Humanoid Robots
Hand-guiding and physical human-robot interaction are becoming essential in industries where flexibility and safety are critical. With our 6-axis force torque sensors, operators can guide robotic arms directly by hand—teaching motion paths safely and intuitively. These sensors detect subtle forces and torques, enabling smooth and compliant robot responses. For humanoid robots, they replicate tactile sensing, allowing robotic hands or limbs to adapt to human touch or variable external forces. This makes them ideal for collaborative robotics, assistive robots, and research in human-robot interaction (HRI).
Medical & Rehabilitation Robots
In healthcare robotics, precision and safety are paramount. Our 6-axis force torque sensors play a vital role in robotic systems used for rehabilitation therapy, exoskeletons, and even robot-assisted surgery. By delivering accurate force and torque data across all six axes, these sensors allow robots to adapt to the patient’s movement and physical condition in real time—reducing strain, improving comfort, and increasing therapy effectiveness. Applications include gait training, limb rehabilitation, and precision tasks in surgical environments, where reliable tactile feedback is critical.
Precision Grinding & Polishing
Surface finishing tasks like grinding and polishing require stable, repeatable force to ensure even results and prevent tool damage. With a 6-axis force torque sensor mounted near the end effector, robotic arms can adjust their motion in real time based on surface contact feedback. This enables adaptive pressure control, compensates for surface irregularities, and protects both parts and equipment. Ideal for metal parts processing, die polishing, aerospace component finishing, and automated deburring, this setup boosts process stability and production efficiency.
Palletizing & Depalletizing
In logistics and warehouse automation, palletizing and depalletizing robots must safely handle various payloads while adapting to differences in weight, shape, and position. With a 6-axis force torque sensor, robotic systems gain a tactile sense, allowing them to detect contact force during pickup and placement. This prevents collisions, dropped loads, or misaligned stacking. Whether handling boxes, crates, or irregular items, our sensors optimize gripping force and improve the reliability of automated packaging workflows—especially in dynamic environments such as e-commerce fulfillment centers, food & beverage distribution, or pharmaceutical logistics.
How Does a Force/Torque Sensor Work?
A force/torque sensor works by detecting the mechanical deformation (strain) of a specially designed structure when external forces and torques are applied. This structure, often made of high-strength alloy, is equipped with strain gauges that convert these deformations into electrical signals.
In a 6-axis force/torque sensor, measurements are taken along all three linear axes (X, Y, Z) and three rotational axes (Rx, Ry, Rz), enabling full six degrees of freedom (6 DoF) sensing. These sensors use a high-resolution analog-to-digital converter (ADC)—often 24-bit—to digitize the signals, which are then processed by embedded processors using advanced filtering and decoupling algorithms to ensure high linearity and minimal crosstalk.
The resulting data is transmitted in real time through various output interfaces such as RS-485, Ethernet, EtherCAT, or analog channels, depending on the model. This precise, synchronized feedback allows robots to adapt dynamically to their environment during operations like polishing, assembly, or medical rehabilitation.
In summary, the working principle of a 6-axis force torque sensor involves:
Measuring tiny strains caused by multi-directional forces and torques
Converting analog signals to digital data
Processing and outputting that data for real-time control and feedback
This technology forms the core of intelligent interaction in modern robotic and automated systems.
Types of Force/Torque Sensors: From Single-Axis to 6D Sensors
Force sensors can be classified by the number of dimensions (axes) they can measure:
Single-Axis Force Sensor
A single-axis force sensor measures force or torque along one direction—typically either X, Y, or Z. It is ideal for basic load measurement tasks such as weighing or push/pull force testing.
3-Axis Force Sensor
Measures forces in three directions (Fx, Fy, Fz) based on a Cartesian coordinate system. Common in robotic end-effectors and automation arms.
6-Axis Force Torque Sensor
Measures all six degrees of freedom:
Forces in X, Y, Z directions (Fx, Fy, Fz)
Torques around X, Y, Z axes (Mx, My, Mz)
Features of the 6-Axis Force Torque Sensors
1. Complete 6-Degree-of-Freedom Force and Torque Feedback
The 6-axis force torque sensor captures force and torque in three orthogonal directions (X, Y, Z) and three rotational axes (roll, pitch, yaw). Unlike standard single-axis or 3-axis force sensors, it delivers full six-degrees-of-freedom (6-DoF) environmental force data.
This makes it ideal for complex applications in robotics, mechanical testing, scientific research, and automation engineering.
2. Enables Robots to "Feel" with Precision
By delivering real-time force and torque data, the sensor gives robots a true “sense of touch.” It supports closed-loop control by synchronizing force feedback with robot motion posture and vision systems.
As a result, robots can adapt dynamically to the surface contours and material variations during tasks such as polishing, assembly, or inspection. This improves:
- Accuracy and flexibility
- Product quality
- Process efficiency
- Overall cycle time
3. High-Precision Force Control at the End-Effector
Typically installed at the end of a robot arm, the sensor allows precise force control during interaction with objects or environments. It is easy to integrate into existing systems, though its control bandwidth is relatively narrow.
For operations with tight Takt Time requirements, combining the sensor with vision-based positioning ensures:
- High-precision manipulation
- Reduced cycle time
- Better overall system responsiveness
Advantages of HPS 6-Axis Force/Torque Transducers
1. Ultra-Low Temperature Drift
The HPS-FT series 6-axis force torque sensors are equipped with advanced built-in temperature compensation algorithms, significantly reducing the impact of temperature fluctuations on sensor accuracy. This ensures consistent and precise measurements even in environments with changing or extreme temperatures — a critical feature for high-precision applications such as robotics, biomechanics, and medical instrumentation.
2. IP65 Protection with Aviation-Grade Connectors
With a certified IP65 Ingress Protection rating, HPS-FT sensors offer robust protection against dust, debris, and low-pressure water jets, making them ideal for use in demanding industrial and research environments. The sensors also feature a secure anti-drop aviation plug, ensuring stable and reliable data connections even in mobile or vibration-prone setups.
3. High Sampling Rate: Up to 2700 Hz
The sensor integrates a 24-bit high-speed ADC with a sampling rate of 2700 Hz and minimal hysteresis (just 0.1% of Full Scale). It supports multiple output interfaces including:
- Ethernet
- EtherCAT
- RS-485
- Analog output
This makes it ideal for high-speed, real-time feedback control in robotics and automation systems.
4. Exceptional Overload Protection (350%)
Constructed with high-strength materials and reinforced structural design, the HPS-FT sensor can withstand overloads up to 350% of its rated capacity, protecting it from unexpected mechanical shocks during operation.
5. Real-Time Data Display
Using the official HPS client software, users can monitor and display sensor data in real time. This greatly simplifies system debugging, tuning, and data analysis, enabling faster integration and validation.
6. High Linearity & Low Crosstalk
Thanks to a high-performance embedded processor and advanced signal processing algorithms (including filtering and decoupling), the sensor delivers:
- High linearity of measurements
- Extremely low crosstalk between channels
This results in clean, reliable force and torque readings across all six axes.
7. Emergency Stop I/O Integration
When used with the EtherCAT or Ethernet adapter, the sensor supports I/O for emergency stop functions. You can set threshold alarms, and if force limits are exceeded in any direction, the system can trigger an emergency stop within 0.5 milliseconds, helping prevent damage to the sensor, the robot, or the workpiece.
FAQS
What is a multi-axis force/torque sensor?
A multi-axis force/torque sensor is a device that measures force and torque along more than one direction or axis. Commonly used in robotics and automation, it allows systems to detect and respond to multi-dimensional loads for more accurate and adaptive control.
Where is a 6-axis force/torque sensor typically installed?
A 6-axis force/torque sensor is usually mounted at the end-effector of a robot or between a tool and a robotic joint. This placement allows it to accurately measure interaction forces between the tool and the environment, supporting real-time adjustments during tasks such as grinding, gluing, or quality inspection.
What industries use multi-component force sensors?
Multi-component force sensors are widely used in robotics, aerospace, biomechanics, medical devices, and industrial automation. Any application that requires accurate measurement of complex loads—such as wind tunnel testing or surgical robotics—can benefit from six-axis force feedback.
What is the output format of a 6-axis force/torque transducer?
A 6-axis force/torque transducer typically provides digital output via Ethernet, EtherCAT, or RS-485, and may also support analog interfaces. These formats allow seamless integration into PLCs, motion controllers, and custom data acquisition systems for real-time force control and monitoring.
How does temperature affect a 6-axis force sensor?
Temperature changes can introduce signal drift in a 6-axis force sensor, affecting accuracy. High-quality sensors, like the HPS-FT series, include built-in temperature compensation algorithms that minimize this effect, ensuring stable performance even in environments with fluctuating temperatures.
What is crosstalk in a multi-axis force sensor?
Crosstalk refers to unwanted signal interference between measurement axes in a multi-axis force/torque sensor. Low crosstalk is critical for accurate data. Advanced signal processing and mechanical decoupling in premium sensors help reduce this issue to negligible levels.
What is the difference between 3-axis and 6-axis force sensors?
A 3-axis force sensor measures forces in three linear directions (X, Y, and Z), while a 6-axis force/torque sensor measures both linear forces and rotational torques (Mx, My, Mz), providing full six degrees of freedom (6 DoF) data. The 6-axis model is ideal for advanced tasks requiring complex interaction feedback, such as force control in robotic arms or surgical robots.
How do I calibrate a 6-axis force/torque sensor?
6-axis force/torque sensor calibration involves applying known loads and torques along each axis to verify and adjust the sensor’s output. This process ensures accurate readings and compensates for any cross-axis effects or sensor drift. Calibration can be performed using a certified calibration rig or via the manufacturer’s recommended software tools.
What is a 6 DoF force/torque sensor used for?
A 6 DoF force/torque sensor is used in applications that require precise measurement of both forces and torques in all three dimensions. It is commonly found in collaborative robots (cobots), surgical simulators, rehabilitation devices, and automated assembly systems where sensitive, real-time force feedback is critical for performance and safety.
