Dynamic Bicycle Torque Sensor Spec

Methode Electronics International GmbH +49 (0)89 660 083 44
Rheinstrae 48 +49 (0)89 660 083 43

55435 Gau-Algesheim paul.sinclair@methodegermany.com
Germany
Released: Sep 2013 Free Wheel Torque Sensor Product Description Page 1 of 8
Version: 0.1
Dynamic, Highly Accurate, Bicycle Torque Sensor
FWTS1 Free Wheel Torque Sensor
1. Introduction
The Free Wheel Torque Sensor from Methode The signal output is analogue. The mechanical
Electronics set new standards in the range of connections are realised through a standard
Bicycle Torque Measurement. These free wheel feature.
sensors are characterised by high accuracy, The torque-sensing shaft, the non-contact
outstanding dynamic performance and no signal detector, and the analog signal
maintenance requirement. The dynamic conditioning electronics are integrated into the
features of the Free Wheel Torque Sensor sensor housing. The torque sensor is
provide very high output signal bandwidth characterized by very low power consumption,
(1kHz), and allow real-time torque internally amplified output voltage signal, long-
measurements. Thus the sensor is able to term stability and a very good price-
detect and measure sudden and dynamic performance ratio.
torque changes that other sensors may not be
capable of detecting.
2. Key features
Measurement range: 0 Nm to 100 Nm
Dynamic & static use
No signal drift
Signal bandwidth: 1kHz
Excellent cost-performance ratio
Insensitive to bending and axial forces
Integrated electronics
Maintenance-free operation

Rheinstrae 48 +49 (0)89 660 083 43
Germany
Version: 0.1
Dynamic Non Contact
Free Wheel Torque Sensor
3. Technical Data
Type FWTS1
Description Free Wheel Torque Sensor Remark
Nominal torque Mnom Nm 100
Torque measurement
system
Measurement type Static and dynamic
Output signal at 0 Nm Measured offset may

(must be checked before V 0.5 0.02 mV change depending on
measurement) end use
No appreciable drift
Long-term drift over 48 h mV <1 under normal
conditions
Cut-off frequency (-3db) Hz 1000 (optional)
Characteristic curve deviation,

related to the nominal % <1.0
sensitivity
RSU (rotational signal

% <1.0
uniformity)
Repeatability, related to the according to DKD-R

% <0.05
change in output signal 3-5
Power supply
Excitation voltage Range V 6 to 16
Nominal supply V 12
Current consumption in
mA <25
measurement mode
Current consumption at
mA <80 Only for 5ms
start up
Nominal power consumption W <0.4
Signal output
Interfaces
Analogue V 0V to +5.0 Continuous scale
Nominal sensor signal slope mV/Nm 400.5

Rheinstrae 48 +49 (0)89 660 083 43
Germany
Version: 0.1
Dynamic Non Contact
Technical Data (Continuance)
Type FWTS1
Description Free Wheel Torque Sensor Remark
Nominal torque Mnom Nm 100
General data
Degree of protection according to IP XX
EN 60 529
Operating temperature range C -20 to +85
Storage temperature range C -20 to +100
limiting speed (max.

Nominal speed min-1 250 (5000)
rated bearing speed)
Load limits:
Perpendicular to the
Axial N 500
shaft ends
Between housing and
Lateral (bending forces) N
200 shaft end
Overload capability: No damage to the
% 120
related to Mnom sensor at max. load
Breaking torque,
% >350
related to Mnom

Rheinstrae 48 +49 (0)89 660 083 43
Germany
Version: 0.1
Dynamic Non Contact
4. Mechanical Dimensions

Rheinstrae 48 +49 (0)89 660 083 43
Germany
Version: 0.1
Dynamic Non Contact
5. Terminals/Connections
Plug: Front view
1 2 3
Description:
Pin number: Standard version: Comments

1 Supply Voltage + VCC 6V to 16V
2 Signal Output + Vout 0.5 to 4.5V
3 Supply Ground 0 VCC
Connector Specification: Molex panelmate 51146 (connector on PCB)
Maximum cable length: X m

Rheinstrae 48 +49 (0)89 660 083 43
Germany
Version: 0.1
Dynamic Non Contact
6. Operating instructions
1. Field of Application
The torque sensor is intended for use in an bicycle environment (e.g. in pedelec, eBike,...).
2. Sensor Installation and Removal

The shafts connected to the torque sensor must be properly aligned. A shaft coupling should be selected to
eliminate or minimize backlash, angular misalignment of the shafts, end-float, or other mechanical situations
that would affect the performance or operation of the torque sensor. Using a connector other than specified, or
a cable that is longer than the specified maximum length, may affect the overall performance of the sensor.
Prior to removing the sensor from operation, remove all lateral forces or torque stored in the mechanical
assembly. Remove the keys from the shafts before loosening the mounting screws.
DO NOT REMOVE THE SHAFT WITH TORQUE APPLIED TO THE SENSOR.
3. Offset
The sensor is preset (factory settings) to have an output signal at 0Nm of 0.5V.
4. Interface description
Mechanical interface:
Free Wheel feature. CAD data will be provided on request.
Electrical interface:
A 3-pole plug for power supply and signal line (see Terminal diagram) is provided.
5. Operation (Normal, Optimisation)

For optimal measurement results, do not exceed the rated torque when using the sensor. Do not operate the
sensor at the maximum rotational speed for extended periods of time. Observe the prescribed operating
conditions to ensure trouble-free and maintenance-free operation of the sensor.
6. Operation Outside Specified Conditions, Corrective Action

External magnetic fields may have an adverse effect on the measurement results. Excessive mechanical
stress on the sensor (e. g. longitudinal forces / loads outside the specified limits, strong vibrations) may cause
damage to the sensor and thus lead to incorrect signal outputs. Contact the manufacturer for assistance.
7. Installation position
The torque sensor can be mounted in any position. With a clockwise applied torque, the output signal will
increase from the 0.5V zero-load condition. An counterclockwise applied torque will be seen as a decrease in
output signal from the 0.5V start value. Due to the Free Wheel feature no counterclockwise beside the friction
in the system should be possible.
8. Commissioning
After sensor installation, observe the following procedure:
Switch on the power supply unit and check the supply voltage. Peak voltages to the sensor must be avoided.
Be sure to verify the power supply voltage prior to connecting the sensor.
Using the specified connector, connect the sensor to the power supply unit.
Connect the sensor output to an A/D converter, oscilloscope, PLC analogue board, PC measurement board,
etc.
With the sensor under no mechanical load (zero torque condition) determine the output signal voltage.
Depending on external magnetic fields present, the zero-load output voltage can vary from the nominal 0.5V
start-value. This offset change has no influence on the sensor performance as long as only static magnetic
fields are known to be causing the offset change.

Rheinstrae 48 +49 (0)89 660 083 43
Germany
Version: 0.1
Dynamic Non Contact
9. Disposal
Please return the device to the manufacturer for disposal.
10. Handling and Transportation

During sensor handling, storage and transportation, it is important to ensure that the sensor is not exposed to
any magnetic or electromagnetic fields higher than specified by the electromagnetic compatibility
requirements. Static or dynamic loads on the sensor must be avoided during transportation.
11. Safety Precautions

1. Do not open the sensor housing under any circumstances.
2. Do not remove or loosen the locating rings on the shaft ends.
3. Do not loosen or tighten the nut on the flange-mounting socket-connector.
Carrying out any of the above operations (1.-3.) results in loss of sensor calibration. The sensor no
longer operates normally and must be returned to METHODE for re-calibration and re-certification.
4. Use only power supplies that are properly isolated from the electrical mains.
5. Observe the specifications regarding maximum electrical and mechanical loads on the sensor, as
shown on the sensor label and under Specification.
6. Protect the sensor from exposure to any electric or magnetic fields higher than specified by the
electromagnetic compatibility requirements.
Notes:

Rheinstrae 48 +49 (0)89 660 083 43
Germany
Version: 0.1

Dynamic Bicycle Torque Sensor Spec

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Dynamic Bicycle Torque Sensor Spec

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Methode Electronics International GmbH +49 (0)89 660 083 44

Rheinstrae 48 +49 (0)89 660 083 43

Methode Electronics International GmbH +49 (0)89 660 083 44

Description Free Wheel Torque Sensor Remark

Nominal torque Mnom Nm 100

Output signal at 0 Nm Measured offset may

Characteristic curve deviation,

RSU (rotational signal

Repeatability, related to the according to DKD-R

Nominal power consumption W <0.4

Analogue V 0V to +5.0 Continuous scale

Nominal sensor signal slope mV/Nm 400.5

Methode Electronics International GmbH +49 (0)89 660 083 44

Technical Data (Continuance)

Description Free Wheel Torque Sensor Remark

Nominal torque Mnom Nm 100

Operating temperature range C -20 to +85

Storage temperature range C -20 to +100

limiting speed (max.

Methode Electronics International GmbH +49 (0)89 660 083 44

Methode Electronics International GmbH +49 (0)89 660 083 44

Plug: Front view

Pin number: Standard version: Comments

Connector Specification: Molex panelmate 51146 (connector on PCB)

Maximum cable length: X m

Methode Electronics International GmbH +49 (0)89 660 083 44

2. Sensor Installation and Removal

DO NOT REMOVE THE SHAFT WITH TORQUE APPLIED TO THE SENSOR.

5. Operation (Normal, Optimisation)

6. Operation Outside Specified Conditions, Corrective Action

Methode Electronics International GmbH +49 (0)89 660 083 44

10. Handling and Transportation

11. Safety Precautions

Methode Electronics International GmbH +49 (0)89 660 083 44

You might also like