VPG to Showcase Custom Force and Torque Sensing for Humanoid Robotics at RoboBusiness 2026

As humanoid robots move from labs into factories, warehouses, homes and other shared spaces, accurate physical feedback becomes essential. These machines are designed to mimic human dexterity, balance and decision-making, yet they need precise, real-time feedback to work in unpredictable situations.

At RoboBusiness 2026, Vishay Precision Group (VPG) will present custom force and torque sensing solutions for next-generation robotics. The company says these address complex mechanical, thermal and electrical challenges. VPG provides precision sensing and measurement systems that improve product performance across industries, making the world safer, smarter and more productive.

VPG invites attendees to meet its team at RoboBusiness.

Advanced vision systems and AI handle overall perception and path planning, but force and torque sensing determine how safely and smoothly a humanoid robot interacts with its environment. Although these robots use powerful actuators, AI models and real-time controls, they still need accurate physical measurements for joint torque, balance, foot pressure, grip strength and contact pressure, especially when working closely with people.

Stationary industrial robots operate on fixed tracks in controlled spaces. Humanoid robots, by contrast, must move through changing environments, handle unpredictable loads and manage many points of contact. They need force-sensing solutions that go beyond standard hardware, ideally built into the robot's structure from the start to turn basic mechanical parts into smart, responsive systems.

Many engineering teams start with off-the-shelf components for quick prototyping but encounter major integration problems as designs develop. Stock sensors can be too large for small robot limbs, and their shapes or mounting needs may force engineers to redesign parts. Catalog sensors also often have overly broad measurement ranges, reducing signal accuracy. They may lack multi-axis measurement and require bulky external electronics, adding size, wiring and electrical noise. Standard parts may also lack thermal and environmental adjustments for temperature changes and vibration in compact robotic joints.

VPG designs custom force and torque sensors built directly into a robot's structure. They use precise strain gage technology attached to mechanical parts, so even tiny load-induced deformations create measurable changes in electrical resistance. A Wheatstone bridge circuit converts those changes into accurate analog or digital signals. The sensors can measure one or several directions at once, providing tactile feedback, joint torque data and multi-axis information from wrists or feet with accuracy for real-time control.

Ron Zukerman, Innovation Director at Vishay Precision Group, said the company focuses on providing precision sensing exactly where it is needed most: at key points of performance, safety and control in advanced intelligent systems. He added that with sixty years of experience in aerospace-grade force sensing, VPG connects experimental mechanics with smart system integration, helping engineers test, validate and add sensing with outstanding accuracy and reliability.

At RoboBusiness, VPG is highlighting custom strain gage-based solutions that address four key performance areas in humanoid robot design.

Miniature tactile force sensors target very small, low-capacity uses such as fingertips, knuckles and joint mechanisms. Their flexible, lightweight designs do not affect robot movement. They can measure tension and compression and respond quickly, with natural frequencies at kHz levels. This high-speed feedback is essential for delicate gripping, detailed manipulation and precise touch control.

Multi-axis force sensors are built for complex joints including torsos, shoulders and wrists. Sensitive strain gage patterns, crosstalk compensation and strong thermal stability allow multiple directions to be measured at once in a compact design. This accurate data is key for real-time balance, coordinated movement, walking and safe human interaction.

Joint torque sensors manage loads in moving joints such as shoulders, elbows and knees. Custom-fit to each joint, they measure torque directly and in real time without adding extra weight or complexity. By getting accurate torque data from inside the actuator, VPG helps robots move smoothly, respond quickly and keep actuators lightweight.

Force feedback loop sensors provide real-time feedback directly to the robot's control system. They deliver fast, stable data even when loads change quickly, allowing humanoid robots to grip objects gently, adjust resistance, recognize gestures and work safely with people in factories or healthcare settings.

To help robotics OEMs move from concepts to large-scale production, VPG offers complete engineering support. The company manages the whole process in-house, from defining requirements and optimizing strain with FEA to prototype testing, thermal adjustments, design changes, production tooling and final quality checks. Depending on the project stage, VPG works with engineering teams through full development, co-development or manufacturing-to-customer-spec partnerships.

At RoboBusiness, robotics engineers, CTOs and R&D leaders can meet VPG's team to learn about custom sensor integration, flexure designs and technical resources. More information on how VPG supports precision motion control in new humanoid robots is available at www.vpgsensors.com or through VPG's LinkedIn page. Sponsored content by Vishay Measurement Group.