More safety and precision

Harmonic Drive SE is expanding its portfolio of high-precision drive solutions with a groundbreaking innovation: the Harmonic Drive gearbox with integrated torque sensor. This new solution combines backlash-free movement with precise load sensing – ideal for safety-critical and sensitive applications in robotics, medical technology, and automation.

Torque measurement optimally integrated into precision gearboxes

Harmonic Drive gearboxes are used wherever precise movements must be executed without backlash. In many applications – such as collaborative robots (cobots) or surgical robots – torque is a key input signal for motion control. It enables basic safety functions such as collision detection or supports hand-guided programming (direct teach-in). The compact integration of a sensor into the strain wave gear provides an additional signal for sensitive control and increases safety.

Seamless integration – without compromise

The sensor is integrated into the gearbox in such a way that it is subjected exclusively to torque, not bearing forces. This leaves the signal unaffected, allowing the sensor to be designed extremely compactly – without requiring additional space or compromising tilting stiffness.

Outstanding Precision

Harmonic Drive SE torque sensors set new standards: With a measurement accuracy of 0.1% of the sensor's full-scale torque and a system accuracy of 1% for the gearbox and sensor combination, they enable precise measurement and control of axle loads – for example, when joining sensitive components in assembly processes.

Adaptable and Robust

The design and construction of the core elements – gearbox assembly kit, output bearing, and torque sensor – is carried out in-house by Harmonic Drive SE and can be individually adapted to customer requirements. The sensor technology is based on proven strain gauge technology and impresses with its high temperature stability, aging resistance, and electromagnetic compatibility. The service life remains excellent even under harsh conditions.

Flexible Electrical Interfaces

The sensor is available with various electrical interfaces – from passive strain gauges and analog signals (±10 V, 4–20 mA) to serial bus protocols (USB, RS-232), PCB buses (SPI, I²C), and fieldbus systems such as CAN or EtherCAT.

Diverse Application Areas

• Robotics, Handling & Automation: Safety functions and sensitive control in cobots
• Medical Technology: Force feedback in surgical robots
• General Mechanical Engineering: Force-controlled assembly processes with high precision

With the integration of the torque sensor into the proven Harmonic Drive strain wave gear, Harmonic Drive SE is expanding its product portfolio with an intelligent solution for precise and safety-relevant applications – tailored to the requirements of modern key industries.