Problems of design and application of rotary torque meters for measurement of a small torque

Torque measurements in precise equipment reveal a specific nature, which makes it very difficult or impossible to use many typical methods and measuring devices. Successful implementation of new torque meters prototypes and construction of new OPM/Z series of types allowed for new interesting experiments. New optoelectronic rotary torque meters, characterized by a minimal moment of inertia of the rotating subassembly, made it possible to take measurements of the torque both on the rotating and fixed shafts. Computer-aided experimental stands enable registration of a torque signal as well as automatic corrections of the measurement way. Formulation of a mathematical model of torque meters combined with numerical simulation allows for optimization of the torque measuring path e.g. by the selection of constructional features of individual elements of the stand.