How to measure tightest tolerances in highest accuracy

Alicona presents its latest optical 3D Focus-Variation measuring instrument µCMM at Control show. “This is a new benchmark in production measurement technique”, says the supplier.

µCMM is the most accurate purely optical micro-coordinate measuring system in its class. Users combine advantages from tactile coordinate measuring technology and optical surface measurement and measure dimensions, position, shape and roughness of components with just one sensor. The new µCMM offers high geometric accuracy of several optical 3D measurements in relation to each other, which enables the measurement of the smallest surface details including precise determination of the position. The 3D measurement takes place only at the relevant measuring points and thus in a very short time. Users measure both surface roughness and GD&T features with tolerances in the single-digit µm range with just one sensor. The spectrum of measurable surfaces includes all common industrial materials and composites such as plastic, PCD, CFRP, ceramics, chrome, silicon and so on, including matt and polished, reflective components. The simple operation is implemented by single-button solutions, automated measuring sequences and ergonomic operating panels such as a specially developed controller. Air-bearing axles with linear drive enable wear-free use and high-precision, fast measurement. This makes µCMM ideal for permanent use in production.

Flexible, expandable and automatable
µCMM is designed for easy, flexible, and expandable use by multiple operators. This is implemented by a series of options that extend the application range of the optical CMM and maximize fields of use in production measurement technology. The motorized “Real3D Rotation Unit”, for example, turns the 3-axis system into a 5-axis system and enables users to measure components from several, arbitrary perspectives. This allows contactless measurement of surface features such as flank angle, chamfer angle, thread pitch or undercuts.

The automation of measurement series is implemented by the “AutomationManager” automation interface. Thus µCMM offers the fully automatic measurement and evaluation of surface roughness parameters and GD&T features. An administrator defines the corresponding measuring programs, which are started by an operator (e.g. operator in production) at the push of a button. The programs to be measured are selected via drop-down menu or barcode scanner. The measurement result is then completely operator-independent. µCMM is also ready to be used based on integrated production concepts following modern manufacturing concepts. In Industry 4.0 or Smart Manufacturing, machines, production systems and measuring instruments connect and communicate with each other to enable adaptive and self controlling production.