Optical measurement refers to noncontact measurement utilizing numerous light sources. It often requires a minimum of one lens, a light source and a detector. It differs from other forms of inspection in that instead of utilizing a tactile measurement methodology like a touch probe, it uses either a degree of reference (e.g. a crosshair) or a pc to calculate edge detection. Two of its greatest benefits are its capability to measure options too small or fragile to measure by contact, and the truth that it is faster compared to other forms of measurement.
The medical, plastics, aerospace and automotive industries are the place optical measurement has, and will proceed to have, significant impact. But, in reality, this form of noncontact detection applies to applications across most verticals and sectors. Adopters of contemporary optical measurement units are looking for straightforward-to-use technology that supports the acquisition of more accurate data in less time. Consequently, there’s a rising demand for in-line measurement and faster processing of acquired images as well as image stitching capability and larger fields of view. There’s additionally a growing demand for modern elements like liquid lenses. But when deciding which—if any—optical measurement devices are right for you, all factors must be considered.
Profile Projectors/Optical Comparators
You may think of this optical measuring system as a high-accuracy overhead projector much like what schools used within the Nineteen Seventies, ‘80s and ‘90s. It could actually accommodate goal lenses up to 100x magnification, use either contour or surface illumination, and has either a microscope-fashion stage or metal stage with T-slots that may hold as much as one hundred lbs. The stage is married to high-accuracy linear scales, which provide positional feedback, and a crosshair is typically etched onscreen as a measurement reference point. Measurement throughput will be increased by adding edge detection, usually within the form of an onscreen fiber optic detector.
Operation is fairly straightforward, with a consumer inserting a workpiece on the stage with the mandatory fixturing, then bringing the workpiece into focus by adjusting the Z-axis position. Once there’s a centered image on screen, the consumer moves the stage so the onscreen reference reticle is aligned with the characteristic of interest. The consumer then can zero the scales on either the X- or Y-axis and move the stage to the subsequent position on the feature. The scale readout will decide the distance traveled with increased measurement repeatability made potential with the use of edge detection software. Final data is stored and analyzed by an optional 2D processor.
Advantages: The design of the target lens, coupled with a screen size that can measure 14 inches or bigger, means profile projectors typically have a larger discipline of view. Having been a well-known staple for decades, they are one of many best measurement units to use. Unlike a measuring microscope, profile projectors tend to inflict a low level of eye strain. And, overall, they tend to be the least expensive option while remaining one of the fastest.
Disadvantages: Profile projectors/optical comparators have a decrease optical resolution compared to measuring microscopes as well as a lack of digital processing capability and low throughput. Lighting options are additionally limited, generally only including contour illumination.
Measuring Microscopes
It’s essential to point out that measuring microscopes are completely different from traditional microscopes. Unlike a traditional microscope, in a measuring microscope the stage is related to linear scales that provide positional feedback, and a reticle is either built into the eyepiece itself or positioned in the light path as a reference point for measurement. In addition, a measuring microscope accommodates both in-line illumination for applications that require mirrored light and transmitted illumination that permits for contour or profile measurements.
By way of operation, measuring microscopes perform in the same method to profile projectors. A workpiece is placed on the stage, and an image of the characteristic of curiosity is then introduced into focus by adjusting the coarse and fine focus knob. Once a clear image is viewable, the user aligns the constructed-in reticle after which moves the stage to the subsequent fringe of the feature. The ensuing scale readout shows the space traveled. As with profile projectors, edge detection software can be added to achieve larger accuracy and repeatability towards determining the precise edge of a part.
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