A Flare for 3D measurement

An OGP product story

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team May 31, 2002

A competitively priced benchtop noncontact 3D measuring machine is now available from Disc (GB), which incorporates a laser-based high-speed autofocus system.

A competitively priced benchtop noncontact 3D measuring machine is now available from Disc (GB), which incorporates a laser-based high-speed autofocus system.

This development provides a high accuracy z-axis capability and, through the machine's intelligent illumination system, is able to measure components with low levels of surface contrast such as ceramic substrates.

The compact elevating bridge design OGP SmartScope designated Flare 200 has a measuring volume of 200 x 200 x 150mm with a scale resolution of 0.5 micron.

It has a 12.1 programmable zoom lens which is able to create up to 560 times on-screen magnification and uses laser triangulation technology for positioning when travelling through its entire z-axis range which it can in under two seconds.

This action is twice as quick as a conventional auto focus system.

The latest solid-state profile illumination incorporates back lighting comprising a patented linear LED array that is mounted below the glass stage, which supports the component to be measured.

In operation, the LEDs track the optical system as it moves in the x-axis and so automatically optimises the number and position of activated LEDs to suite the magnification.

Also, a patented eight-sector/six-ring white light SmartRing is standard and, as an option, a low incidence SmartRing fibre optic light can be specified.

The use of white light in this way ensures the most effective colour imaging and complements the function of the LEDs.

Image processing is through 256 level grey scale with a 10.1 sub-pixel resolution and intelligent algorithms that automatically filter out noise.

They also smooth any rough edges and enhance contrast on the part being processed.

Such is the level of algorithm development by OGP that minor contamination and even dirt on the component, can be disregarded during the measurement process.

OGP's 32bit Measure-X for Windows dimensional measurement software incorporates image processing tools able to handle geometric functions and transfer live data for SPC and custom reporting software.