Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division has launched a wireless multi-sensor laser scanner with metrology levels of precision for operation inside CNC machine tools. The m&h LS-R-4.8 can capture around 40,000 measurement points a second and securely transmits the data to a receiver, via radio, enabling operators to change the sensor automatically without manual intervention.

Measuring on the machine tool, whether for workpiece inspection, temperature or tool control, is a valuable source of information in the machining process. With this data, it is possible to control workpieces before, or even between, machining operations. The wireless scanner will remove bottlenecks by taking in-line measurement for in-process enhancements away from CMM machines.

Capturing 40,000 measurement points a second provides information about the complete part, rather than selected individual points. This capability enables users to evaluate production quality, enhance manufacturing processes by identifying problems early, better align parts for steps later in the workflow, and gain an insight into complete part quality.

Notably, the wireless scanner deploys laser triangulation to deliver high levels of speed and accuracy. The laser beam projects on to the component and its reflection passes through a lens for detection by an imager. That information then determines the positional measurement points.

Dedicated modular software presents the data in an easy-to-understand format, making it simple for machine operators or quality teams to quickly identify issues and correctly align a part for reworking while it remains in the machine tool.

Hexagon’s new package includes the wireless scanner, modular software and the company’s RC-R-100 multi-sensor receiver. The scanner is stored directly in the machine’s tool magazine, from where it inserts automatically into the spindle without manual intervention.

For further information
www.hexagonmi.com