For more than a decade, the LC15Dx laser scanner manufactured by Nikon Corporation's Industrial Metrology business unit has been a global benchmark for the efficient measurement and inspection of manufactured components, especially those with complex free-form geometry, such as turbine blades, orthopedic implants, and complex plastic parts. Compatible with all leading metrology platforms and software, a new version of the sensor has been released with significantly enhanced functionality in several key areas.
The LC15Dx is certified to ISO 10360-8, the industry standard for CMM laser scanner performance. The new device's ISO 10360-8 Probing size error All is one-third greater than its predecessor, 10 instead of 15 microns, so the scanner is able to provide more accurate and repeatable dimensional measurements, very close to those obtainable with a touch probe.
Manufactured in-house with glass produced within the group, the Nikon lens is of very high quality. Improvements have been made in the way the data captured by the lens and imager are converted to measured data points, improving structural resolution and allowing even finer textures and surface details to be observed. The lens is custom designed for this laser scanning application, which improves resolution by avoiding the need to incorporate a commercially available third-party lens that only approaches the ideal specification.
The LC15Dx has always incorporated a patented Nikon software algorithm that maintains accuracy, speed and data quality by automatically adjusting the laser settings in real time at each measured point to match the type and reflectivity of the material being examined. Coupled with a high-quality daylight filter to accommodate different ambient lighting conditions, it can inspect any material, regardless of color, gloss or transparency, without the need for spraying or other surface preparation. This capability has been further enhanced in the new camera by making it easier to acquire data from very dark materials. There is even a high ISO mode that can be activated to process black surfaces, including those with a glossy finish.
The instrument can begin scanning faster than before after being turned on, increasing productivity when inspecting or reverse engineering components. Warm-up time remains zero, as an algorithm compensates for measurements taken while the sensor's temperature rises to match its environment. What is new, however, is that the startup time is cut in half to 14 seconds, allowing the internal computer to be ready to receive data much faster. This upgrade promotes metrology productivity by allowing near-instantaneous operation.
Kristof Peeters, Product Manager, said, " Along with all of these improvements, the livery has been changed to a sleek black and white appearance, so that the user can immediately see that they are using the latest version of the sensor. LC15Dx adapter kits are available for controllers installed on major brands of coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), while a wide range of programming and reporting options are available from many reputable software providers. "
Like all laser scanners, the new device is capable of delivering a large amount of point cloud data in a very short time, providing a comprehensive view of the object being studied, whether it is a prototype, component or production assembly. The richness of the information allows the creation of a 3D cartography in conjunction with the CAD with color coding for a quick understanding of the process variations.
Laser scanning is a non-contact inspection tool, so there is no risk of deforming soft items such as foam or rubber, or damaging delicate samples. Operation can be combined with touch probing for multi-sensor measurement routines on a CMM, with automation options using a changeover rack, allowing access to deep bores or other internal features that are difficult to see with a touch trigger probe.
Mr. Peeters concludes: " The increased resolution and accuracy of data acquisition with our latest LC15Dx laser scanner makes it even more suitable for Quality Inspection 4.0 applications. Continuous feedback of metrological information to a production line can ensure product compliance by preventing parameters from going out of tolerance, avoiding the expense of scrapped parts, rework and product recalls. "