Vision measuring systems, also known as non-contact metrology machines, are fast tool that can inspect and sort parts at high speeds. They can recognize unique product shapes and can even be fitted with a Renishaw touch probe system for 3D measurements.
These systems utilize camera and lens magnification to detect defects in products that are too small for human eyes. They can also incorporate touch-trigger sensors and lasers.
High Accuracy
Vision measuring systems, also called image measurement machines, are highly precise machines that can measure surface dimensions of a workpiece or part to ensure quality and consistency. Unlike traditional gauges or inspection jigs, which are subject to operator variation and overall measurement conditions, vision measuring systems perform automated inspection. They show and report accurate measurement values which can be reviewed, saved, and used to conform to process performance specifications.
Accuracy, repeatability, and resolution are the three main metrics by which any machine vision system is rated. It is important to understand these terms and how they relate to one another.
Jenoptik’s vision systems can be used as standalone units or as the heart of complete inspection and sorting systems. They offer high optical quality, multilingual software with a broad function library for 2D and 3D applications, and can be connected to external devices via multiple types of interfaces. They also enable high speed operation for increased throughput, while still maintaining accurate results.
Faster Processes
Using industrial vision inspection systems, manufacturers can keep pace with high-speed production lines and inspect 100% of parts in-line. This eliminates manual touch gauging which can damage the part or lead to mechanical gauge wear.
Typically mounted above or to the side of the part, a camera is used to capture an image and then processed with software tools that determine whether a specific set of features on the part fall within tolerances. If the dimensions do not meet tolerances, a fail signal is sent to a logic-based device such as a programmable logic controller (PLC) that actuates the system to eject the part from the assembly line.
The best vision measurement system can be compared to a CMM for accuracy, but vision systems can measure 2D and 3D surface features much faster and offer important surface details that a CMM cannot. These features allow manufacturers to identify misaligned parts early in the process so they can be corrected before they cause a machine jam or other costly problems.
Increased Productivity
Machine vision systems use a camera and computer software to detect parts, read barcodes and perform other tasks that can reduce human error. These systems can also identify problems with process lines or other functions in real-time to make decisions that can improve efficiency, stop unnecessary processes and prevent product rejection.
Vision inspection technologies can keep pace with the quickest production lines and inspect thousands of parts per minute. They don’t require manual touch, eliminate maintenance costs associated with mechanical gauges and are ideal for high-throughput manufacturing applications.
To get the most out of a vision system, shop managers should first evaluate their part’s specifications to determine what features will be most useful. For example, medical parts typically have tight tolerances for dimensions and printed documentation that can be difficult to trace with traditional gauging methods. A vision measurement system can accurately and quickly evaluate a wide range of part features in 3D using a touch probe or a zoom lens.
Increased Safety
Humans are more likely to get injured while operating bulky equipment or working in dangerous places or clean rooms. Vision systems reduce or eliminate this risk, allowing you to work in a safer environment.
Machine vision systems use image sensors that convert light captured by the lens into digital images. These are then sent to a video processor for analysis.
The computer then uses the information contained within these images to locate, identify, or count objects. These processes are much faster and more accurate than those performed by humans. They also avoid errors due to operator fatigue and variances between operators.
Detecting flaws, like printing anomalies or surface dents, is another function that many vision measurement systems perform. These flaws are then compared to a master or golden image and any deviations are flagged for correction. This function helps to ensure that only quality products make it through the manufacturing process. This ensures that all the finished products meet a standard and that no mistakes are made that could cause costly production delays.
