Binsfeld TT10K-LP Miniature Torque Telemetry Transmitter

Overview

The Binsfeld TT10K-LP Miniature Torque Telemetry Transmitter is an ultra-compact, high-reliability wireless strain-based torque measurement system engineered for real-time dynamic torque acquisition from rotating shafts in space-constrained and harsh-environment applications. Based on precision Wheatstone full-bridge strain gauge excitation and telemetry, the TT10K-LP employs a 3 VDC regulated bridge excitation source with ±0.1% stability to ensure metrological integrity across temperature and load variations. Its 17 mm height and 31 g mass enable integration into tight mechanical envelopes—such as automotive half-shafts, powertrain test benches, and aerospace actuator assemblies—without requiring shaft disassembly or mechanical modification. The transmitter operates within the 903–925 MHz ISM band, delivering robust RF link performance with ≥3 m line-of-sight transmission range and immunity to electromagnetic interference common in industrial test cells. Unlike conventional slip-ring solutions, this telemetry architecture eliminates wear, contact noise, and maintenance downtime while preserving signal fidelity up to 500 Hz bandwidth (−3 dB point).

Key Features

• Ultra-low-profile transmitter (17 × 26 × 51 mm) designed for direct mounting on rotating components with minimal moment of inertia impact.
• Extended battery life: 48 hours continuous operation on a single 9 V lithium battery under nominal bridge load (350 Ω), achieved via optimized low-power circuitry and efficient RF modulation.
• Infrared remote configuration: Enables non-intrusive setup—including gain selection, shunt calibration initiation, channel assignment, and standby mode activation—while the shaft is stationary, eliminating teardown cycles.
• Dual-output interface: Simultaneous analog ±10 VDC output (field-adjustable scaling: 0.25× to 4.0×) and RS-232 serial digital output (DB9 connector) for seamless integration with DAQ systems, PLCs, or custom software platforms.
• IP67-rated optional waterproof housing for operation in wet, dusty, or high-vibration environments—validated per IEC 60529 standards.
• 14-bit analog-to-digital conversion with <4.2 ms total system latency (at 500 Hz filter setting), supporting high-fidelity transient torque capture in dynamic duty cycles.
• Programmable low-pass filtering (multiple cutoff frequencies) and user-selectable gain (500–16,000) to match transducer sensitivity and application-specific signal-to-noise requirements.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The TT10K-LP is compatible with industry-standard full-bridge strain gauges (350 Ω nominal; 1000 Ω optionally supported), making it suitable for retrofitting onto existing torque rods, flanges, or custom-engineered rotating members. It complies with FCC Part 15 Subpart C regulations for intentional radiators operating in the 902–928 MHz band and meets CE marking requirements for electromagnetic compatibility (EN 61326-1) and environmental robustness (EN 60068-2 series). While not certified to ISO/IEC 17025 for calibration laboratory use, its bias error specification (±0.25% of reading at gain 4000, 25 °C) and thermal stability characteristics align with ASTM E2504 and ISO 376 guidance for static and quasi-static torque transducer verification. The system supports GLP-compliant data traceability when paired with validated acquisition software featuring audit trail and electronic signature functionality (e.g., compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when implemented with appropriate IT controls).

Software & Data Management

The TT10K-LP requires no proprietary host software: its RS-232 output conforms to standard ASCII protocol with configurable baud rate (default 9600 bps), enabling direct ingestion into LabVIEW, MATLAB, Python-based DAQ frameworks, or commercial test automation platforms (e.g., NI TestStand, dSPACE SCALEXIO). Analog output integrates with any voltage-input data logger meeting ±10 VDC input range and ≥100 kΩ input impedance. All remote configuration parameters—including gain step, channel ID, and calibration offset—are stored non-volatilely in the transmitter’s EEPROM. The included IR remote provides immediate access to critical settings without physical access; however, for automated test sequences, users may script serial commands to replicate these functions programmatically. Firmware updates are not field-upgradable; units ship with production-qualified firmware verified for RF stability and timing consistency across temperature extremes.

Applications

• Automotive driveline testing: Half-shaft, CV joint, and differential torque characterization under dynamic loading and thermal cycling.
• Aerospace actuation systems: Real-time feedback for electro-mechanical control surface actuators and landing gear drive trains.
• Industrial motor and gearbox validation: In-situ torque profiling during endurance, overload, and efficiency mapping tests.
• Academic and R&D rotational dynamics studies: High-bandwidth acquisition for modal analysis, torsional vibration, and clutch engagement behavior.
• Energy sector equipment: Torque monitoring in wind turbine pitch/yaw drives and hydraulic pump couplings where slip rings are impractical.

FAQ

Can the TT10K-LP be used with existing TorqueTrak 10K receivers?
Yes—the TT10K-LP shares full RF and protocol compatibility with all TorqueTrak 10K-series receivers, enabling drop-in replacement or mixed-system deployment without hardware or software modification.
Is shunt calibration traceable to NIST standards?
Shunt calibration is a relative verification method; absolute traceability requires external reference torque calibration per ISO 376 using certified deadweight or hydraulic calibration machines. Binsfeld provides documented procedures for in-situ shunt verification as part of routine QA checks.
What is the maximum centrifugal acceleration the transmitter can withstand?
The unit is rated for 2000 g steady-state radial acceleration, validated via centrifuge testing per MIL-STD-810G Method 513.6, making it suitable for high-RPM applications such as turbocharger shafts and high-speed spindles.
Does the system support synchronization across multiple transmitters?
No hardware-based time synchronization is provided; however, 16 independent channels operate on orthogonal frequency sub-bands within the 903–925 MHz range, minimizing cross-talk. Temporal alignment of multi-channel data must be performed post-acquisition using common trigger signals or timestamp interpolation.
Is the waterproof housing included or optional?
The IP67-rated waterproof housing is an optional accessory (sold separately); the base transmitter meets IP54 when installed per manufacturer guidelines but requires the housing for full ingress protection in washdown or outdoor conditions.