Automatic Vision System Offers High Throughput

The Starrett Company’s AV450 automatic vision system is said to enable users to achieve high throughput in their inspection process, and is especially useful for both repetitive, larger part-run applications and routine quality assurance, according to the company. Featuring a large X, Y, Z measuring envelope of 18" × 14" × 8" (457 mm × 356 mm × 203 mm), the system has high-resolution zoom optics and can be pre-programmed for repetitive part inspection, or driven manually via a trackball. With its stable mechanical design and precision linear bearings, smooth stage motion, performance and throughput is said to be easily attainable. Throughput is further enhanced by either QC5000 or MetLogix M3 software that controls edge detection and multiple-channel fiber optic or LED illumination.

Resolution of the system is 0.1 microns and magnification on a 24" monitor, 1-to-1 pixel setting, ranges from 37x to 240x with a 6.5-to-1 zoom and from 25x to 300x with a 12-to-1 zoom. The system includes a 1.3 mega-pixel video camera and a granite base. M3 metrology software supports three-axis measurements and 2D geometric constructs and corrections for level, skew and datum origin. Touch-screen functionality provides intuitive operation.

Options include a Renishaw touch probe kit; Optimet laser probe; 0.5x, 1.5x and 2.0x auxiliary lenses; an LED dark-field quadrant illuminator and a field-of-view option for automatic comparison to CAD files. Other options include a CNC rotary axis fixture, touch probe change rack, calibration standards, part fixtures and workholding devices.