What Is an Optical Comparator?

An optical comparator, also known as a profile projector, is a measuring apparatus typically used in the manufacturing industry. Its main function is to inspect, measure, and compare the dimensions of different manufactured parts. Optical comparators use lenses, mirrors, and illumination to project a magnified silhouette of a part. Learn more about what an optical comparator is and how to use it.

Benefits of Our Optical Comparators

VISIONx, Inc. carries a wide selection of digital optical comparators suitable for various applications. Compared to traditional optical comparators, our VisionGauge® systems offer multiple benefits, such as:

• Increased accuracy: Our digital comparators can automatically conduct detailed measurements and inspections. They eliminate operator-to-operator variations, ensuring accurate data and reducing the risk of human error.
• Higher throughput: The system can run swiftly and fully automatically, allowing manufacturers to conduct more measurements in less time.
• Optimized workflow: VisionGauge® digital comparators work directly with your existing CAD data. Our advanced patented technology provides detailed documentation of data, statistics, and pass/fail results for a streamlined process.
• Cost efficiency: VisionGauge® systems remove the need for costly overlays. This function significantly reduces the operator's expenses on Mylar production and labor costs while minimizing downtime.
• Ease of use: Whether for manual or fully automated operations, the VisionGauge® systems are extremely easy to use and operate. The software is also customizable to your specifications, ensuring correct and consistent results for your industry.
• A smaller footprint: Our VisionGauge® devices are compact and versatile, taking up less space. The systems are designed to allow you to conduct measurements and inspections straight from the shop floor.

Applications of Digital Optical Comparators

VisionGauge® digital optical comparators support many applications and industries. To name a few, these versatile devices are suitable for applications and industries, including:

• Aerospace: Optical comparators measure various parts in the aerospace and aeronautics industries, such as turbine disks, slots and blade fir trees, cooling holes, and seal slots.
• Automotive: The automotive industry uses comparators to inspect and measure components, such as electrical connectors, gears, and valves.
• Defense and Military: The defense and military sectors use a comparator machine to inspect parts with holes and slots. The device tracks the number of holes and inspects their location and geometry.
• Medical Manufacturing: Optical projectors inspect a variety of medical devices and procedures, such as stents, medical rasps, implant screws, and orthopedic implants.
• Power and energy: The power and energy sectors benefit from comparators when inspecting turbine components and mico-holes, as well as verifying the presence and exact location of different hole types.

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Optical Comparators

Choose VISIONx for Your Optical Comparator Needs

Browse our catalog of optical comparators for sale to learn more about the features and capabilities of our devices. For all inquiries, contact us online today.