Automated and Manual Sample Inspection

In addition to typical in-process, continuous dynamic measurement applications, LaserLinc’s non-contact measurement equipment is well suited for manual and automated off-line sample inspection. Inspecting cylindrical products with long, thin characteristics, such as camshafts and catheters requires checking multiple locations and dimensions for accuracy. Manual inspections of these areas can be difficult because of the complex profile as well as the need for numerous measurement stations, different equipment and skilled personnel. 

To simplify and automate this process, LaserLinc’s offline Metron system uses software-controlled servos to efficiently and consistently check product profiles against a recipe. And it does this at one station with the press of a button. These systems can measure continually while the slide is moving, or be configured to move-stop- measure-and move again. If needed, these sequences can be combined to create comprehensive inspection routines.

Using the Metron system, customers can expect shorter measurement cycle times, deliver greater value and perform more accurate inspections. Metron systems offer customers a cost-effective automated inspection solution since they are built with mostly off-the-shelf components, including: 

• Sensor
• Linear actuated slide
• Light-curtain or enclosure for safe operation
• Windows-based PC with optional touchscreen
• Total Vu™ software

Using these components, we create a fully integrated solution, minimizing risk while maximizing functionality and performance.

Customized options for part holding and enclosures are also available.

In addition to typical in-process, continuous dynamic measurement applications, LaserLinc’s non-contact measurement equipment is well suited for off-line sample inspection. The BenchLinc™ system performs a comprehensive measurement evaluation for wall thickness, and inner and outer diameter for tube products.

Standardizing measurement performance is key. The BenchLinc ID/OD/Wall system has an integrated smart controller that directs measurement inspection and sample manipulation. It also has an integrated load cell to ensure consistent and repeatable pressure on the sample, which minimizes operator influence and results in more accurate measurements. 

The BenchLinc system offers several advantages, including: 

• ID/OD/Wall measurement, display, tolerance checking, SPC and data logging in a single device.
• The system provides offline cold and relaxed sample measurement for automatic offset and verification for in-process UltraGauge+ systems.
• With Total Vu™ HMI for both off-line and dynamic in-process systems, users experience seamless integration and system architecture.
• It is available in 1-inch [25.4mm] and 2-inch [50.8mm] models.
• A 12-inch, easy-to-use, color touchscreen Windows tablet PC provides a quality user experience. 
• Hardened steel custom-designed mandrels with a low friction coating keep the tube sample accurately located in position during measurement rotation and accommodate small burrs on the tube ID.
• Rather than a carbon steel three-jaw Jacob’s chuck, an adjustable dovetail mount mandrel holder offers a snug fit. Operators can fasten the mount using a hex tool for easy installation.
• Wider drive belts offer the most dependable part rotation.

In addition to typical in-process, continuous dynamic measurement applications, LaserLinc’s non-contact measurement equipment is well suited for off-line sample inspection.

For round products such as wire and tube, the BenchLinc™ Zero-Chuck system performs a detailed outer diameter inspection to identify flat spots and ovality errors. The BenchLinc Zero-Chuck system offers several advantages, including: 

• The system uses a simple spring-loaded chuck to quickly and easily load samples for inspection.
• Chucks have two pairs of opposing jaws to avoid deforming small or delicate samples.
• Recipe-based inspection profiles have a user-defined number of points to measure and the rotational angle between measurements to ensure consistent and accurate results.
• Chucks are available in ⅛-inch [3.17mm], 1/4-inch [6.35 mm], and ½-inch [12.70mm] sizes.
• Generate electronic or printed reports using Excel-based templates.
• Reduce costs by sharing one system among multiple lines and operators using concurrent batching (data from each line is kept separate).
• Use polar charts to graph measurement values versus angle for quick visual understanding of sample profile.
• Go paperless by generating complete electronic records, including information about the order, the process, and the product.