Robotics manufacturer Stäubli Robotics and 3D inspection software provider Metrologic Group have jointly developed the first robot capable of absolute three-dimensional measurements to an accuracy of 100 microns, without the need for tracking systems or target pads.
The 3D metrology market foresaw the arrival of robots. Their arrival has now been confirmed, with the launch by Stäubli Robotics and Metrologic Group of their latest innovation, the first absolute robotic measurement solution to rival conventional coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) in terms of accuracy, without the use of target pads or tracking systems.
The first of its kind, the CMR (for Coordinate Measuring Robot) combines Metrolog X4 i-Robot - Metrologic Group's 3D inspection software dedicated to robot control and developed thanks to 35 years of expertise in geometric error correction and compensation - with Stäubli's TX90 and TX200 series 6-axis robots. Result: the solution achieves an accuracy of +/- 100 microns in tactile mode and +/- 150 microns with a laser sensor, within a volume of 1 m.3. And, as with all Metrologic Group software-controlled measurement systems, the CMR can be fitted with any sensor, tactile or optical, regardless of brand.
Unique software
Metrolog X4 i-Robot not only improves CMR's performance in terms of accuracy and integration of tactile and optical sensors, it also pilots the robot and offers maximum exploitation of measurement results. All thanks to a single software package.
The simulation version of Metrolog X4 i-Robot, Silma X4 i-Robot, enables dedicated inspection programs to be programmed virtually, offline, making CMR programming as easy as with a conventional CMM.
Innovation and cost reduction
A flexible, robust solution, the CMR offers measurement accuracy equivalent to that achieved in a metrology laboratory, but right next to the production line. It also offers many other advantages:
- CMR reduces costs by eliminating the need to invest in laser or camera tracking systems;
- With no tracking system limitations, the solution has no blind spots. This increases accessibility and measurement range.
- Combined with Metrologic Group's software suite, the CMR is a flexible, reliable and easy-to-use tool, fully in line with the factory of the future.
" With the CMR, Stäubli Robotics demonstrates its expertise in solutions where speed, precision and robustness are crucialsays Jacques Dupenloup, Stäubli Robotics Sales Manager for France and Benelux. CMR is designed to deliver maximum efficiency in degraded environments, comparable to that required in metrology laboratories. This makes it the most appropriate tool for industries requiring the best performance close to the production line. "
" We are very proud to launch this innovation on the 3D metrology market. With CMR, we are once again demonstrating that innovation and pioneering spirit are part of our DNA.says Bertrand Gili, Chairman of the Metrologic Group. The CMR is the first "turnkey" robotic solution developed entirely by a robotics specialist and fully integrated into Metrologic Group's software suite. Users will benefit from its ease of use, flexibility and reliability in demanding industrial contexts. For us, the CMR is the symbol of democratized 3D robotic inspection. "
Learn more: www.metrologic.fr