New retrofit vision system for contact CMMs

Mitutoyo has introduced the new Quick Vision Probe (QVP), available as a retrofit system for the Euro C range of CNC CMMs, providing non-contact vision measurement at an affordable cost

Mitutoyo has introduced the new Quick Vision Probe (QVP).

It is available as a retrofit system for the Euro C range of CNC CMMs, providing non-contact vision measurement at an affordable cost.

When using the QVP with a conventional CMM, many of the restrictions of contact measurement are eliminated.

Small dimensions, easily deformed plastic and rubber parts and printed items such as PCBs can be measured more easily and accurately than with contact type probes.

Another benefit is that heavy or larger workpieces that require vision measurement techniques can be easily accommodated within the design and construction of a conventional CMM.

Coupled with sub-second vision processing speed, the QVP significantly reduces inspection cycles, hence increasing measurement efficiency and reducing costs.

A white LED illumination system is employed, providing many advantages.

These include quick responses to brightness adjustments as well as a long service life.

The need for external light sources and associated cables are also eliminated.

Therefore, minimal additional wiring to the CMM is required, making the retrofit as easy as possible.

By using a lightweight alloy body, the overall size and weight of the probe is kept to a minimum, aiding compatibility with conventional probes, and it can be used with the current probe system that is employed on the CMM.

The probe also comes in two configurations: auto-joint connector or straight shank type.

The auto-joint type can be used with an automatic rack probe changing system, reducing the cycle time of a part program where both contact and non-contact measurement techniques are required.

The system is supplied with the powerful Windows based Visionpak software.

This runs with Geopak-Win CMM software, giving seamless control between both contact and vision measurement.

Visionpak is designed with an easy, intuitive interface that allows relatively inexperienced users to progress quickly with minimal training.

An auto/manual focusing function is available for edge detection as well as step and height measurement.

Single click operation is another element of Visionpak.

When a feature is selected, such as a point of line, the edge is automatically detected.

All the operator has to do is select the relevant tool from the icon menu and then click near the applicable feature.

In addition, every image captured by the high resolution CCD camera can be processed simply and quickly, and can be stored as a Bitmap file.

This can then be used with a spreadsheet or word proceeding software to produce high quality report documents.

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