Measuring & Inspection Systems

Featuring a 1:4 zoom ratio, the Titan Tool Supply Model ZMM-1 industrial inspection zoom microscope offers constant focal length, highly favorable depth of field, a large field of view at 15X magnification, and a higher magnification with smaller field of view at 60X as standard. When used with the optional extra 20X eyepiece, the Model ZMM-1 can additionally perform reliable and accurate remote visual inspections of a workpiece over an expanded magnification of up to 120X –all without the need for a change of lens.

The density determination solution is a metrological system which has been developed for the rapid and highly accurate density determination of components, and has a particular significance when analysing AM-produced parts. Porosity in AM parts can be a problem because it can weaken the mechanical strength and stability of the parts, reduce their durability, and make them more susceptible to failure under stress. Porosity can also affect the thermal and electrical properties of the parts and make them less resistant to high temperatures, corrosives, and other environmental factors.

The results of a single dispense of up to 12 channels are calculated in under one minute. The unique and innovative XPR105MCP tests each pipette channel individually on the same load cell to ensure equal measurement performance. The load cell is protected from any spills to ensure lifelong performance.

The measurement targets are distributed uniformly at intervals of approx. 100 millimetres across the entire Target-Net. The Target-Net itself measures 1500 x 2500 millimetres and has in total  approx. 300 measurement targets. Thanks to the high measurement target density, several scans can be performed very quickly from different perspectives.

With the use of the PM controller, several times stiffness is achieved compared to solutions using capillaries. This produces extraordinarily high stiffness with respect to radial, axial and moment loads. With the help of extensive computer programmes, an optimum in dimensioning is achieved regarding dynamic loads, so the best-possible damping is achieved. By precisely determining the limits of use and loads, an optimum in functional reliability is achieved.

The Acoustic Performance Measurement (APM) system is capable of monitoring the parameters of ultrasonic frequency and power in-line at each processing station and for each batch. Special directional microphones are used for this, which are placed in a fixed position at the edge of each tank, and directed towards the centre of the bath surface. Thus, measurements are carried out without any movement or contact, ensuring reproducible results and enabling them to be precisely assigned to the batch concerned. Analysis, evaluation and storage of the data are carried out by the software of the innovative measuring system.

The DAX® linear encoder is suitable for measuring positions in many applications, including injection molding machines, presses, automotive machinery, printing and packaging machines, wind, hydro and solar plants, in wood processing, or medical technology.

As it is automated, reconstruction by Dual.Material CT is highly repeatable from component to component and does not require advanced knowledge of scanning techniques when inspecting assemblies comprising two materials of different densities. QC productivity is raised by enabling better visualization and more accurate definition of defects (on the surface or inside a component) in a fraction of the time taken by traditional CT image reconstruction. The high-speed scanning, and the fact that no manual data editing is required thanks to the new software and automated part handling, enables fast and automated quality control of dual material assemblies in a production environment, consistent with the requirements of Quality 4.0.

Nikon's alignment with the industry-standard OPC UA communication protocol reaffirms its dedication to developing fully automated, non-contact, X-ray CT quality control systems for the shop floor. There is a growing, industry-wide trend towards using this technology for feeding back data in real time to optimize production line operation – the goal being zero defects. X-ray CT is especially relevant, as it is able to inspect and measure the interior of components non-destructively as well as the exterior.