LK Metrology has released the latest version of its measurement, programming, analysis and reporting CMM software. Now called CAMIO 2021, numerous improvements help to increase inspection productivity, enhance the quality of data collected and gain better insight into the measurement of components.
For instance, CAMIO 2021 Geometry Validation reduces the time taken when preparing new inspection programs by automatically detecting which surfaces of the CAD model should be used to measure the feature. It ensures that all measurements are taken on suitable surfaces automatically, at the same time providing the programmer with the option to modify default settings and selections.

During programming of the feature, the CAD simulation highlights the geometry used for the validation and previews the measurement sequence. This preview combines with the teach path view to provide full visual and numerical evaluation of the programming sequence prior to executing the touch points or scanning sequence, enabling the programmer to get the inspection sequence right first time when programming online or offline.
Other improvements have been made to the programming workflow by extending the picking function to touch points and scan paths on a CAD model, and to indicate the selection of existing measured features.

New for CAMIO 2021, probe self-centring allows the centre point of a V-groove to be automatically located and measured using a scanning probe. This capability replicates hard gauging and measurement with gauge balls, typically used for gear tooth inspection and measuring countersink depth. Probe self-centring responds to the continuous deflections of an analogue probe in real time to locate the mid-point between two surfaces.

For further information
www.lkmetrology.com

A new 3D vision system makes inspecting parts in 3D as easy as using a 2D smart camera. While optical inspection in 3D previously required a great deal of programming and offered relatively few benefits, Cognex says that its new technology brings better image quality, simplified application development and a range of true 3D inspection tools – significantly expanding the range of applications in industrial automation.

Cognex states that its In-Sight 3D-L4000 vision system enables engineers to solve a range of inline inspection, guidance and measurement applications on automated production lines quickly, accurately and cost-effectively. The smart camera offers a suite of true 3D vision tools that are as easy to use as Cognex’s 2D vision tools thanks to the familiar and robust In-Sight spreadsheet environment. In addition, the patented speckle-free blue laser optics are an industry-first, enabling the capture of high-quality 3D images.

The type of laser used in the In-Sight 3D-L4000 is a significant technical advance in laser-based imaging: the vision system eliminates speckle by using a special laser in the blue light range. As a result, the imager sees a clear laser line, resulting in higher accuracy 3D images. In addition, the laser provides its own illumination for both 3D and 2D images – the system does not require any external light.

As a further advantage, the In-Sight 3D-L4000 has its processing power built right in, allowing the vision tools to perform true 3D point cloud inspections without the need for an external controller or third-party PC-based software. A nice side benefit is that, with on-board processing, it is possible to complete image analysis in a very short time.

For further information
www.cognex.com