TE Connectivity (TE) has partnered with tacterion, a Munich-based provider of touch sensors, to deliver intelligent touch and force sensor technology that supports the digitalization of industrial processes. Together, TE and tacterion will develop connector and component solutions that combine TE's reliable connectors with tacterion's superior sensor technology. tacterion holds the patents for a foldable and stretchable proximity, touch, and force sensor technology called plyon®, which transforms virtually any surface into a smart surface. The sensors are distinguished by their flexibility, robustness, and high signal integrity when bent or used on curved surfaces: plyon® sensors have a total thickness of only 0.5 to 0.7 mm and can achieve a bending radius as small as 1.0 cm while maintaining their full measurement range. The sensors are extremely durable and resistant to static loads. Thanks to tacterion's patented drift compensation technology, they provide virtually drift-free readings over time, making them suitable for use in demanding industrial environments.
TE will use plyon® flexible sensor technology to add intelligence to its products, such as TE Intercontec connectors. These connectors are used in servomotors, robots, and machines, providing more reliable operation, which can be further enhanced by equipping them with the tacterion sensor. The sensor monitors the connector's condition and can report faults, such as deviations or an open connector, to the higher-level monitoring system. This will help customers reduce costs and minimize machine downtime through predictive maintenance.
Tacterion sensor products will also be available through TE's distribution partners and the TE website.
"Tacterion not only offers attractive and innovative sensor technology, but also has an agile and dedicated engineering team," said Alex Megej, CTO of TE Industrial. "Together, we will develop smart connector solutions that help customers drive the digitalization of their facilities and bring plyon® technology to applications across various industries."
“We are excited to work with TE and demonstrate the power of our sensors, even in challenging production environments,” said Michael Strohmayr, CEO of tacterion. “New types of sensors are essential for a truly digitalized Industry 4.0, and together with TE we can bring more intelligence—and potential cost savings—to the production floor,” added his brother, Daniel Strohmayr, also a CEO of tacterion.
