Optical Coordinate Measurement Machine for Tightest Tolerances in Highest Accuracy

In Booth E-135833, Alicona Corporation (Bartlett, IL) presents their latest optical 3D Focus-Variation measuring instrument µCMM, the most accurate optical micro-coordinate measuring system in its class. Users combine advantages of tactile coordinate technology and optical surface metrology to measure dimensions, position, shape and roughness of components with just one sensor. The new µCMM offers high geometric accuracy of several optical 3D measurements in relation to each other, which enables the measurement of smallest surface details including precise determination of position. The 3D measurement takes place only at the relevant measuring points and thus in a very short time. With only one sensor, users measure both surface roughness and GD&T features with tolerances in the single-digit µm range. The spectrum of measurable surfaces includes all common industrial material and composites such as plastic, PCD, ceramics, etc. including matte and polished, highly reflective components.

The simple operation is implemented by single-button systems, automated measuring sequences and ergonomic operating panels such as a specially developed controller. An automatic objective magazine further supports flexible usage and easy handling. Air-bearing axes with linear drive enable wear-free use and high-precision, fast measurement. This makes µCMM ideal for permanent use in production. A series of options extend the application range and maximizes fields of use in production measurement technology. For example, the motorized rotation unit “Advanced Real3D Rotation Unit” turns the 3-axis system into a 5-axis system and enables users to measure components from several, arbitrary perspectives. This allows contactless measurement of surface features such as flank angles, chamfer, thread pitch or undercuts.

Another feature is measurement automation achieved by the AutomationManager interface to be able to fully automatically measure surface roughness parameters and GD&T features. An administrator defines the required measuring programs, which are started by an operator on the shop floor at the push of a button. The programs to be measured are selected via drop-down menu or barcode scanner. The measurement result is then completely operator-independent. µCMM is also ready to be used in advanced manufacturing environments based on integrated Industry 4.0 or Smart Manufacturing where machines, production systems and measuring instruments connect and communicate with each other to enable adaptive and self-controlling production.

“The optical µCMM is a new benchmark in production measurement technology that will present completely new possibilities in micro-coordinate measurement,” explains Stefan Scherer, the president of Alicona president. “This enables us to further expand our market leadership in the field of roughness measurement and the measurement of dimension, position, and shape with just one sensor. This new measurement system supplements the previously known spectrum of production measurement technology with a new, purely optical solution. Users benefit from all the advantages we offer with our Focus-Variation technique. These include the high-resolution measurement of components with steep flanks and highly reflective surfaces, insensitivity to vibrations and a high number of measuring points.”

Alicona Corporation, 1261 Humbracht Circle, Suite G, Bartlett, IL 60103, 630-372-9900, Fax: 630-372-9965, www.alicona.com.