Versatile Large Format Multi-Sensor Vision System for Accurate, Fast Measurements

The L.S. Starrett Company (Athol, Massachusetts), a global manufacturer of precision hand tools and gages, metrology systems and more, introduces the AVX550 Multi-Sensor Vision System, a powerful, easy-to-use multi-sensor measurement system which streamlines and optimizes the QC process. Using a single system, production parts can be examined on the shop floor or in the QC lab on macro and micro levels as one comprehensive process.

The Starrett AVX550 Multi-Sensor System features dual optical systems that work in tandem to measure a broad range of features and a touch-probe capability to measure parts with a diverse range of feature sizes and geometries. The Large Format AVX550 System can also be furnished with two cameras and lenses to be used sequentially in the same program. The primary zoom lens enables small intricate features to be inspected with high precision and resolution of up to 2 microns. A secondary large field-of-view camera is equipped with a telecentric lens that can simultaneously inspect large areas of a part, or an entire part itself. A broad range of zoom options also means that measurement configurations can be custom tailored to meet specific application requirements, and eliminate the need to change lenses or re-calibrate the system. Throughput is further enhanced with fast platform travel speeds and dual collimated profile lights which are essential to the effectiveness of the dual optical systems.

Equipped with the M3 software package from MetLogix, a traditional mouse as well as a touchscreen monitor makes user interaction easy and intuitive. Auto part recognition enables creating a part measurement program that comprises the desired features of a part for inspection, which can automatically be saved in the system or to a network. Programmable light output options can be built into the program as defined steps, including being called up as the part recognition program initiates. For fast, accurate and repeatable results, once the program is created, placing that part within the camera’s field-of-view allows for the saved program to initiate and run the inspection. Features such as a “Superimage” function allows the piecing together of multiple camera frames in order to view a large part as one single image. A Renishaw Touch Probe may also be utilized for quick acquisition of discreet points along a part’s profile and 3D geometry mapping.

The Starrett AVX550 Multi-Sensor System has several options for lens configurations. For inspection of small, intricate areas, a powerful 12:1 zoom optics lens is equipped with a 26x to 310x magnification range for precise resolution. The fixed magnification telecentric lens comes with magnification options of 0.14x, 0.3x, 0.5x, 0.8x, 1.0x, 2.0x and 4.0x. Systems can be configured in a larger measurement range on the X, Y, and Z axes, and can also be equipped with Q-axis rotary positioners for increased capability. For accuracy, durability and stability, including under demanding requirements, the AVX550 system features a granite base and bridge design.