OGP unveils new multi-sensor metrology system

OGP, a manufacturer of optical and precision multi-sensor metrology systems for industrial quality control, is releasing its SmartScope E45, a floor model addition to the all-new SmartScope E-Series family of automatic digital-zoom metrology systems.

With the launch of the benchtop SmartScope E7 model in September 2022, OGP says it reimagined its trusted SmartScope line-up, making it accessible to all skill levels and budgets. Along with E7, E45 features the brand-new fixed lens IntelliCentric optical system, a fully telecentric optical system providing super high-resolution imagesin video edge detection metrology. The digital zoom allows for instantaneous magnification changes, while the standard all-LED lighting system illuminates parts from every angle. As a point of note, the E45 features a generous stage to handle large parts or a variety of smaller components.

The E45 offers sturdy, stable construction whereby parts move on a precision DC motor-driven Y-axis stage, while the optics travel in the X axis mounted on a rigid bridge support structure for metrological integrity.

Jim Stern, director of OGP applications engineering, says: “SmartScope E45 combines innovative optical design, advanced camera technology and OGP’s class-leading image processing algorithms. E45 has the same feature size range as mechanical zoom optical systems, but without moving parts, increasing throughput and system longevity. The IntelliCentric optical system produces outstanding optical performance at low zoom, with fantastic image quality, telecentricity and distortion-free imaging.”

OGP is accepting orders for SmartScope E45 systems now.
For further information www.ogpnet.com/e45

Laser cutting expert moves to Ficep UK

Well-respected laser cutting system specialist, Lisa Cooper, has joined Ficep UK as business development engineer in a move that will see her switch from aftercare to sales.Cooper gained 30 years of experience working in machine aftersales at Bystronic, primarily supporting customers with laser cutting, press brakes, tube laser cutting and plate storage systems. Her appointment coincides with Ficep UK’s recent introduction of the Cutlite Penta Plus 30kW laser system, an asset which Cooper will further support the growth of in the UK.

“Becoming business development engineer is a new challenge for me, yet I’m looking forward to drawing on my knowledge of systems and the market to add value to the process,” she says.“It’s an exciting time to be joining Ficep UK as the company continues to innovate and explore new systems such as the new Cutlite Penta Plus laser.”
For further information www.ficep.co.uk

Phantom high-speed cameras adopt EMVA 1288

Vision Research, manufacturer of Phantom high-speed cameras, has made a major update to its published product specifications. By incorporating EMVA 1288 testing standards to measure sensor characteristics, a scientific overview of image performance is now available. This further enables users to choose the best camera for their challenging applications.

EMVA 1288 has long seen use in measuring the performance of machine vision cameras, but Vision Research is the first manufacturer to apply it to RAM-based high-speed cameras.
As a result of providing EMVA 1288 report summaries, Vision Research will no longer be including ISO 12232 measurements for its products moving forward. ISO 12232 has been used by high-speed camera manufacturers to indicate sensitivity; however, it has limited usefulness in practice. Significant indicators of image quality are not included, particularly when it comes to capturing images with high contrast and in low-light situations.

Kevin Gann, VP of R&D at Vision Research, explains: “We’ve always had a strong focus on image quality and EMVA 1288 provides a deep understanding about how a camera will perform in a particular application. It also provides consistency when comparing cameras and includes data about the imaging trade-offs inherent in the sensor design. As the leaders in high-speed imaging, we felt incumbent to implement these measurements across our primary product lines so that our customers can truly understand their camera’s image performance.”

Quantum efficiency, temporal dark noise, dynamic range and absolute sensitivity threshold are among the parameters specified in an EMVA 1288 report. Referencing these in addition to pixel size, resolution and throughput provides the information necessary to compare cameras in terms of image response.
For further information www.phantomhighspeed.com

Vision Engineering Group names new MD

Microscope, 3D inspection and metrology specialist Vision Engineering is appointing Sam Crossley as the company’s newmanaging director, a role that will draw upon his extensive global leadership and financial experience.Previously a member of the senior leadership team at Rotork, which employs over 3700 employees in 39 countries, Crossley has comprehensive market knowledge in the oil and gas, petrochemical, mining and automation markets. Current managing director Mark Curtis will continue to head the board as CEO, focusing on strategic development and wider group growth opportunities.
For further information www.visioneng.com

ALFED relocates headquarters

ALFED, the Aluminium Federation, has relocated its corporate headquarters to the Bragborough Hall Business Centre in Northamptonshire. With state-of-the-art facilities surrounded by picturesque views and excellent transport links, the location is the perfect base for ALFED’s growing team.Demonstrating its commitment to the future, the new site offers breakout areas to host member training sessions and modern, bespoke workspaces for the ALFED team. A step-change from the company’s previous base in Halesowen, it represents the next chapter in the organisation’s journey.
For further information www.alfed.org.uk