TE Connectivity, a global player in connectivity and sensors, has entered into a partnership with tacterion, a leading Munich-based haptic sensing company, to provide intelligent touch and force sensing technologies that support the digitization of industrial processes. In this collaboration, TE and tacterion will jointly develop connector and component solutions that combine reliable TE connectors with tacterion’s superior sensor technology. The new product will help enable remote digital monitoring of equipment, becoming a key tool for predictive maintenance, condition monitoring and security applications in Industry 4.0 environments. The first product of TE’s smart connector family is expected to be released in 2023.

After signing the contract with tacterion, the first projects will be launched. Daniel and Michael Strohmayr, founders and ceos of tacterion, Alex Megej, CTO of TE’s Industrial Division, and Kerstin Gohl, vice president and general manager of TE’s Systems Connectivity Products Division.

tacterion holds a patent for a bendable and stretchable proximity, touch and force sensing technology called plyon® that turns virtually any surface into a smart surface. This sensor stands out for its flexibility, robustness and high signal integrity when bending or used to bend surfaces: with an overall thickness of just 0.5 to 0.7 mm, the plyon® sensor achieves a bending radius as small as 1.0 cm while maintaining its full measurement range. These sensors have excellent durability and can withstand static loads. By utilizing tacterion’s proprietary drift compensation technology, they provide nearly drift-free readings over a period of time, enabling them to be used in demanding industrial environments.

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TE will use plyon® flexible sensor technology to add intelligence to its products, such as TE’s Intercom connectors: These connectors will be used in servo motors, robots and machines to provide them with reliable operation. With tacterion’s sensors, its performance can be further enhanced. The sensor monitors the status of the connector and can report faults, such as deviations or open connectors, to the superior monitoring system. This will help customers reduce costs through predictive maintenance and minimize machine downtime.

tacterion’s sensor products will be available for order through TE’s distribution partners and the TE website.

Alex Megej, CTO of TE’s Industrial Division, said: “tacterion not only provides compelling and innovative sensor technology, but also has a flexible and professional engineering team. Together, we will develop smart connector solutions to help customers drive the digitization of their facilities and introduce plyon® technology to applications in different industries.”

“We are excited to partner with TE and demonstrate how well our sensors can perform in demanding production environments,” said tacterion CEO Michael Strohmayr.

Daniel Strohmayr, tacterion’s other CEO, added: “In a truly digital Industry 4.0, new sensors are essential for the intelligence of the production floor as well as the potential for cost savings. Together with TE, we can bring even more potential to the industry.”