Manual Video Metrology Systems with Telecentric or Zoom Optics and Touch Screen Interface

Available with telecentric or zoom optics, these systems are intended for quick individual measurements and short measurement runs with the convenience and accuracy of non-contact video edge detection.

Starrett Kinemetric Engineering, Inc. (Laguna Hills, CA), a subsidiary of L.S. Starrett Company (Athol, MA), announces its new MVR Series of manual video metrology systems. Available with telecentric or zoom optics, these systems are intended for quick individual measurements and short measurement runs with the convenience and accuracy of non-contact video edge detection (VED).

Two sizes are offered: Model MVR200 with 8 in x 4 in x 8 in of XYZ travel and model MVR300 with 12 in x 8 in x 8 in travel. MVR configurations are available with dedicated or interchangeable optics. These can be any of the 6 available telecentric lenses or the 6.5:1 zoom optics, which offer continuously adjustable magnification from 0.7X to 4.5X and utilize stage motion or field-of-view (FOV) for precise measurements.

The interchangeable MVR configuration offers a quick-change bayonet lens socket that accepts any of 6 telecentric lenses or 6.5:1 zoom optics. Available with fixed magnifications of 0.30X, 0.50X, 0.80X, 1.0X, 2.0X or 4.0X, the telecentric lenses offer optical distortion down to 0.001% for accurate FOV measurements. These can encompass an entire small part up to 2.00 in x 1.50 in or a feature of a larger part. FOV measurements can be seamlessly integrated with stage motion for parts up to 8 in (MVR200) or 12 in (MVR300) long.

The MVR Series is coupled with a 21.5 in all-in-one touch screen PC that runs MetLogix M3 software under Windows® 7 Professional. This software supports 3-axis measurements and 2D geometrical constructs (such as points, lines, angles, rectangles and slots).

The screen displays a live video image of the part plus geometry tools and digital readings. The image of the part can be resized using pan and zoom, and measurements can be taken by simply tapping a feature on the screen. With the M3 DXF/FOV option pack, DXF CAD files can be imported over a network, and DXF drawings can be overlaid on the live video image. Error whiskers can be displayed for portions of the video image that do not fall within tolerance limits, and any deviations can be automatically documented in reports.

MVR hardware features include a granite base for stability and precision as well as recirculating ball linear guides for smooth stage motion. The level of the stage glass can be adjusted mechanically, as well as in the system software. Computer-controlled multi-channel LED illumination ensures long life.

All electronics other than those in the PC are housed in the Z-column, avoiding external components and ensuring a clean system with a minimal footprint. Two serial data cables provide the only electrical connection between the PC and metrology unit.

“Our MVR Series represents the next step in the evolution of manual vision metrology systems with state-of-the-art hardware and software for unmatched accuracy and ease of use,” stated Mark Arenal, the general manager of Starrett Kinemetric Engineering.

Based in Laguna Hills, CA, Starrett Kinemetric Engineering, Inc. is a subsidiary of the L.S. Starrett Company. Known for the design and manufacture of standard and custom precision video-based and optical comparator measure-ment systems, it also produces precision motion devices, X-Y tables, linear stages, and metrology platforms. Its products are backed by application analysis, training and calibration services. www.starrett.com/metrology/metrology-products/metrology-equipment‎