Digital Optical Comparators Archives - Page 2 of 3

VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator Customizable Options

Many other options are available with the VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator, including:

Adapted NIST-traceable stage micrometer with certificate of calibration (this will allow you to carry out the yearly re-calibration yourselves)
Upgrade of the X and Y axis encoders from 0.5 um resolution to 0.1 um resolution.
Extended (i.e. 24″) X-axis travel stage upgrade (from the standard 12″ travel) for Horizontal configuration VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator
Extended (i.e. 12″) Y-axis travel column upgrade (from the standard 6″ travel) for Horizontal configuration VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator
Extended (i.e. 24″ x 24″) X-axis and Y-axis travel stage upgrade (from the standard 12″ x 12″ travel) for the Vertical configuration VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator
Extended (i.e. 12″) Z-axis travel. Applicable for either the horizontal or vertical configuration of the VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator
“Additional monitor option” to automatically load and display inspection instructions & criteria or other related documents when the work order barcode is scanned to automatically load the appropriate CAD file
On-axis reflected LED illumination module (programmable and computer-controlled) fully integrated with VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator. This reflected (i.e. “front”) illumination module produces a very different type of front illumination that is very “flat” (i.e. “shadow free” and low glare) that is more appropriate for certain types of parts. This illumination module is mounted on a “swing arm” to allow the operator to easily put it in position & retract it when it is not needed.
Supplementary rotary encoded motorized axes (i.e. to rotate the part), including:
- All required motion control hardware for the supplementary motorized axis (for part rotation). This motion control hardware is completely and seamlessly integrated with the system’s existing motion control hardware
- Motorized encoded high-accuracy rotary stage
- Fixture to mount the stage to the system’s dovetail grooves
- All required cables & power supplies

LASER module for Z-axis measurements, including:
- High-accuracy structured LASER module
- LASER controller hardware (to completely control the LASER’s operation from within the software)
- Adapted fixture to mount the LASER module onto the Z axis stage
- Software upgrade
- All required cables & power supplies
Optional standalone “desktop” software license (to allow you to remotely view your CAD files, setup tolerances, create automated inspection and measurement programs, etc…)
VisionGauge® Annual Support and Update Program Membership Renewal (which provides users with unlimited technical support and free software updates for a full 1-year period). Note that unlimited technical support and free software updates are included for the 1st year with every VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator (Patent Pending) system.
Replacement air filter (this is the only “consumable” part in the entire system!)

Other accessories, system configurations, fixturing (etc…) are also available…

An optional supplementary monitor to automatically display related files, reports and information on the VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator — An optional supplementary monitor to automatically display related files, reports and information.

Optional adapted diffuse on-axis illumination module on VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator — Optional adapted diffuse on-axis illumination module. This specialized illumination module produces a very different type of front illumination that is very "flat" (i.e. "shadow free" and low glare) that is more appropriate for certain types of parts. It is module is mounted on a "swing arm" to allow the operator to easily put it in position & retract it when it is not needed.

Please contact us for more information including a detailed spec sheet, a “Frequently Asked Questions” document, pricing, etc…

VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator Customizable Options

Z-axis Laser Measurements

Z-Axis LASER Measurement Module

VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparators are available with an optional Z-Axis LASER Measurement Modules.

In the application below, for example, the VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator is used to measure the depth of slots in aircraft engine turbine blades. Without the Z-Axis LASER Measurement Module (i.e. the image on the left below), it is only possible to measure XY dimensions on the part (for example: the slot width).

However, with the Z-Axis LASER Measurement Module (i.e. the image on the right below), the part’s z-axis depth & height variations can all be measured, easily & accurately.

Image obtained with standard front (reflected illumination) on VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator — Image obtained with standard front (reflected illumination).

Z-axis laser measurements for depth and height of parts on VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator — The LASER shows all of the depth & height variations in the part.

Please contact us for more information including a detailed spec sheet, a “Frequently Asked Questions” document, pricing, etc…

VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparators – Z-axis Laser Measurements

Rotary Stages / Rotary Axes

VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparators are available with supplementary rotary axes. Our rotary stages are extremely flat and of the highest quality. They produce very repeatable movement and rotate the part about the stage’s true center.

Rotary stages can be mounted in different planes to accommodate the specific requirements of your application.

Multiple rotary stages can also be used (to provide “Pan & Tilt” capability, for example).

VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator rotary stage/axis

An aircraft engine impeller mounted on a VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator rotary stage/axis

Rotary stage mounted normal to the optical axis on VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator — Rotary stage mounted normal to the optical axis

Rotary stage mounted with the axis of rotation aligned horizontally with a 5C Collet chuck on VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator — Rotary stage mounted with the axis of rotation aligned horizontally (and with a custom fixture that includes a 5C Collet chuck)

Rotary stage and workholding for turnkey runout measurement application

The above video shows a VisionGauge® tool for Automatic Part Alignment that is often used in conjunction with rotary stages.

Overall Outline of Rotary Stage included in "VGDOC-30-RS" (different dimensions and configurations are available) on VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator — Overall Outline of Rotary Stage included in "VGDOC-30-RS" (different dimensions and configurations are available)

Please contact us for more information including a detailed spec sheet, a “Frequently Asked Questions” document, pricing, etc…

VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator – Rotary Stages / Rotary Axes

Single or Multi-mag Optical Configurations

VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparators are available in industry standard 5X, 10X, 20X, 50X and 100X optical configurations, in either single or multi-mag configurations.

Multi-mag configurations still have a single front objective lens, but “under the hood” there is a 3-lens encoded motorized rotary turret. The movement of the 3-lens turret is completely controlled through the simple and intuitive VisionGauge® software interface. Simply press on a button to change the optical magnification. Also, the scaling of the CAD data and all of the optical calibration coefficients are automatically adjusted accordingly!

This innovative high-quality multi-mag system produces the same outstanding image quality as the single-mag configurations, including:

very high resolution
very sharp sharp edge profiles
very strong contrast (i.e. no problems with ambient illumination)
outstanding image clarity
long working distance
extended depth-of-field

An EDM part viewed at 10x, 20x, and 50x magnifications:

An EDM part viewed at 10X magnification on VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator

An EDM part viewed at 20X magnification on VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator

An EDM part viewed at 50X magnification on VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator

It’s also worth mentioning that the magnifications, when changing back-and-forth between objectives, are extremely repeatable. The measurement accuracy is, for all intents and purposes, the same as that of single-mag systems.

Finally, note that the various lenses in multi-mag units yield parcentric and parfocal results.

An Automotive Fastener viewed at 10x, 20x, and 50x magnifications on the VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator:

Automotive Fastener Viewed at 10X Magnification on VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator

Automotive Fastener Viewed at 20X Magnification on VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator

Automotive Fastener Viewed at 50X Magnification on VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator

Many other optical configurations are also available. We can configure a system to meet your specific requirements!

Please contact us for more information including a detailed spec sheet, a “Frequently Asked Questions” document, pricing, etc…

VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparators Single or Multi-mag Optical Configurations

Horizontal and Vertical Digital Optical Comparator Configurations

Our VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparators are offered in both horizontal and vertical configurations. The decision to choose a horizontal or vertical comparator takes into consideration the specific application requirements, the particularities of the part being inspected and how it is presented in the inspection area, and the convenience of operator handling.

Vertical Digital Optical Comparators

Vertical digital optical comparators feature a glass insert on the motorized or manual stage on which the part is placed for inspection. Collimated back-illumination utilizing ultra-bright LEDs illuminate the part from beneath the glass to display the part’s profile for inspection. The lens is mounted pointing downward to capture images as the XY stages moves the part in the field-of-view. Regularly spaced threaded mounting holes on the stage allow precise installation of fixtures, as required. Vertical optical comparators are well-suited for applications where the part sits flat on the glass, i.e. flat parts, such as large plates, etc…

a visiongauge machine with a monitor to the top right of it

500-series VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator Vertical Configuration

a visiongauge machine sat next to a small computer and keyboard

400-series VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator Vertical Configuration

Horizontal Digital Optical Comparators

Horizontal digital optical comparators feature a hard chrome plated X-axis stage, constructed from hardened tooling steel with dual industry-standard dovetail mounting grooves for easy and repeatable part fixturing. The part sits on the stage, perpendicular to the Z-axis and lens. The dovetail grooves make it simple for operators to add and remove fixtures or supplemental axes (e.g. rotary axes), contributing to the versatility of the system so it is widely-applicable for a variety of different inspections within a single setting. Our horizontal configuration machines are our most popular as they are ideal for a very wide range of parts. While vertical configuration machines are generally used for flat parts, the horizontal machines are most often selected for all other part geometries.

500-series VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator Horizontal Configuration

400-Series VisionGauge Digital Optical Comparator with manual stage motion in horizontal configuration (reduced image).

400-series VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator Horizontal Configuration

If you are upgrading an existing optical comparator to the VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator, typically your part’s presentation to the camera will not change, so you can easily replace your traditional optical comparator with our system in the same horizontal or vertical format. In most cases, your existing part fixtures are already compatible with our system’s mounting methods. And even though the VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator has many advanced tools and technologies not available in traditional optical comparators, we’ve provided a user interface that will be very comfortable and familiar for operators used to working with traditional optical comparators. For example: the system has a traditional-look Digital Read-Out (i.e. DRO), it supports traditional protractor-style crosshair-rotation, etc… The VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator truly is a drop-in replacement for traditional optical comparators.

Single and multiple optical magnifications are equally available for each configuration, and each format achieves much greater accuracy than traditional optical comparators, regardless of the configuration. Both Vertical and Horizontal configurations of VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparators support our full customizable range of system options, including:

extended stages for larger travels in X, Y, or Z,
supplemental motorized, encoded high-accuracy rotary stages,
Z-axis laser module for high-accuracy, automated height/depth measurements,
upgraded encoders for a resolution of 0.1 micron,
configurations for heavy loads,
and much more…

Our vertical and horizontal digital optical comparators feature high-accuracy crossed-roller movements on all 3 basic axes (X, Y and Z) for optimal linearity and positional repeatability. These systems are all capable of high-accuracy measurements beyond the field-of-view. Autofocus is standard with all motorized systems.

All of our VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparators showcase high-quality illumination that produces stunning image clarity. All illumination is LED-based for stable and uniform intensity across the entire field-of-view, as well as being programmable and computer-controlled to ensure crisp edge profiles on your parts and strong contrast for every inspection. Multiple front illumination options are also available to inspect the surface of a part or for applications that require specialized illumination configurations.

Contact us for spec sheets, our recommendations, and for more information about how the vertical and horizontal configurations of the VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator can solve your application.

Illumination

VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparators are available with transmitted (i.e. back) and / or reflected (i.e. front) illumination.

The VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparators’ advanced, high-quality illumination modules produce outstanding image clarity even on surfaces and materials that have historically been considered hard to work with (e.g. reflective materials, plastics, etc…) The illumination intensity is very uniform across the entire field-of-view.

Transmitted Illumination on a part on a Digital Optical Comparator — Image of a part using traditional transmitted (i.e. back) illumination. This produces the maximum edge / profile sharpness

Reflected illumination on a Digital Optical Comparator — Image of the same part using both transmitted (i.e. back) and reflected (i.e. front) illumination. In this case we can also inspect the surface of the part.

All illumination is LED-based for very stable and repeatable illumination conditions over a very long life (no more bulbs to replace!). Furthermore, the illumination is programmable and computer-controlled, which ensures repeatable results.

All of the illumination is controlled through a single simple and intuitive software interface!

plastic part on a Digital Optical Comparator — Crisp and Clear image of plastic part (with no glare)

Different types of illumination, to make different features and defects stand out, are available. For example, our co-axial diffuse illumination is especially designed to produce uniform, shadow- and glare-free illumination. It is mounted on a “swing arm” to allow the operator to easily put it in position and retract it when it is not needed. And – again: it uses the latest LED technology and is computer-controlled by the system’s software. Also, our octant-based reflected illumination module projects off-axis reflected illumination from 8 different sectors resulting in overall illumination that is extremely uniform across the system’s entire field-of-view, with no “hot spot”

Adapted diffuse co-axial illumination module on a Digital Optical Comparator — Adapted diffuse co-axial illumination module.

The octant-based illumination produces extremely uniform off-axis illumination to completely remove shadows even on parts with complex and unusual geometry.

The following images show the effect of the ” VGDOC-30-COAXRI ” light source on a reflective / shiny surface (in this case: the touch pad of a BlackBerry).

standard reflected illumination on VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator — Using standard reflected illumination

coax illumination on a Digital Optical Comparator — Using the "VGDOC-30-COAXRI" illumination module

Orthopaedic tibial plate inspected at 10x magnification with regular illumination on a VisionGauge Digital Optical Comparator

An orthopaedic tibial plate inspected at 10x with coax illumination on a VisionGauge Digital Optical Comparator

Orthopaedic Tibial Plate Inspection at 50X magnification with coax illumination on a VisionGauge Digital Optical Comparator

Images of an orthopaedic tibial plate implant. On the left: using standard reflected illumination and on the right: using the “VGDOC-30-COAXRI” illumination module

Learn more about how the VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator overcomes the limitations of traditional optical comparators when inspecting medical plastic/polymer implants.

Please contact us for more information including a detailed spec sheet, a “Frequently Asked Questions” document, pricing, etc…

500 Series Digital Optical Comparators

About Our 500 Series Optical Comparator

The VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator is a fully digital device that works as a reliable drop-in replacement to the traditional optical comparator. It offers convenience for users, allowing you to work directly with your part’s CAD file without the need for overlays, templates, or Mylars™.

This digital profile projector is designed with patented technology and sub-pixel accuracy. It lets you perform accurate and precise measurements and efficiently compare parts against their respective CAD drawings. This streamlined functionality effectively shortens the inspection process without compromising precision and accuracy.

The 500 Series is an automated optical comparator that features a robust and extremely easy-to-use technology. It’s equipped with the VisionGauge® system’s patented CAD Auto-Align™ and CAD Auto-Pass/Fail™ programs, making it easy to use directly on the shop floor. The CAD Auto-Align™ tool automatically aligns the overlay for a fully automated CAD-to-part comparison. Meanwhile, the CAD Auto-Pass/Fail™ tool computes and displays any deviation from nominal and determines out-of-tolerance measurements in real time. In addition to proprietary patented technology, it also has our patent-pending Tooth Checker™ tool to accurately locate roots and crests in toothed parts.

digital optical comparator automatic part alignment

The full digital capability minimizes the device’s margin of error and leaves no room for operator mistakes or operator-to-operator variation. It can also collect complete electronic documentation without human intervention. These include all measurements, pass/fail results, statistics, and high-resolution images of every part inspected.

Advantages

Advantages of Our Profile Projector

The 500 Series Digital Optical Comparator is a powerful and versatile device suitable for measuring both small and large parts. Unlike traditional optical comparators, this machine offers numerous benefits at a competitive price. Benefits include the following:

High-contrast image with sharp edge profiles for a detailed view
High level of accuracy
Excellent optical depth of field capability
Longer optical working distance between the part and the lens
LED illumination for stable lighting
Comprehensive tools for advanced analysis and reporting
Runs fully automated measurements
Automatically sends data to Excel and other external applications
Space-saving and portable
Features a rolling cart configuration for easy movement without re-calibration
Automated work cell integration
Options to control via TCP/IP and RS-232 communications
Automated CAD comparison beyond the optical field-of-view
Barcode reader and joystick interface
Extremely intuitive software
On-screen measurements
Quick and easy annual calibration procedure

Digital Optical Comparators work directly with your CAD data. No more overlays.

Features

500 Series Additional Features

The 500 Series VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator boasts unique features. Some of its cutting-edge features include the following:

Standard 12″ travel X-axis stage with a 0.5-micron resolution encoder
Protective bellows around the 6″ travel Y-axis column
Highly accurate crossed-roller movements for all 3 standard axes
High load-carrying capacity
Programmable and computer-controlled illumination
Power focus and auto-focus capabilities in single or multi-magnification configurations
Complete and ready-to-run Windows-based solutions
Network-ready upon delivery
Standard dovetail mounting grooves
Customizable workholding and fixtures
Optional high-resolution LASER module

a stainless steel table and a hose attached to it

Standard 12″ travel X-axis stage with protective bellows around the 6″ travel Y-axis column. All 3 axes (X, Y and Z) feature high-accuracy crossed-roller movements for optimal linearity and positional repeatability.

Hard chrome plated X-axis stage, made of hardened tooling steel and with dual standard dovetail grooves for easy part fixturing.

Reflected (i.e. front) illumination module or optional Octant-based Reflected Illumination

Overview Video

500 Series Configurations Gallery

VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator 500 Series Vertical Configuration
VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator Super-Extended-Travel Configuration
48"x24"x12" Super-Large XYZ Travel VisionGauge® system
VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator 500 Series Horizontal Configuration

Find the Right Digital Optical Comparator for Your Needs

The 500 Series VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator is a high-performing device designed for the high-accuracy inspection of a variety of parts, whether small, large, light, or heavy. This reliable inspection equipment is available in vertical and horizontal configurations and caters to a wide range of industrial applications.

Learn more about the 500 Series digital optical comparators or other devices from the VisionGauge® digital comparators collection. Contact us to request pricing details or for additional product information.

300 Series Field-of-View Systems

About Our 300 Series Optical Comparator

The 300 Series VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator is a Field-of-View system that is ideal for measuring parts up to 5.5″ x 3.3″ in size. This versatile device also features an extended depth-of-field to accommodate tall parts as high as 4″, as well as a long working distance to provide users with ample clearance and room to work between the part and the lens.

This small parts digital optical comparator produces a high-resolution image for fine and detailed inspections. It has three different types of LED illumination as standard features — a collimated back, front on-axis or “bright field,” and front off-axis or “dark field.” The cutting-edge lighting system produces crisp images and delivers excellent results even when working with hard-to-image materials and tricky shapes. The high-resolution precision optics are ideal for parts with translucent and reflective surfaces, as well as those with complex geometry and deep holes.

Like other VisionGauge® systems, the 300 Series is designed with capabilities that run on Windows-based solutions. This machine is delivered network-ready to minimize downtime and ensure you’ll be up and running from day one. Our team will also provide NIST-traceable calibration to certify the equipment meets industry standards. We complete the service with an on-site installation and training in device operation.

Features
Images

Features

Features of the 300 Series Small Parts Inspection System

This 300 Series VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator has a functionality similar to the 500 Series instrument. The primary differences between these two high-performing devices is that the 300 Series caters to smaller parts and does not include a moveable stage. Built with a convenient desktop configuration, this device features an intuitive operation interface that makes it easy to learn and operate. The small footprint makes it suitable for use in the quality control lab and shop floor. Other innovative features include:

Patented CAD Auto-Align™ and CAD Auto-Pass/Fail™ technology for efficient comparison within seconds
Patent-pending Tooth Checker™ tool for locating crest and root location
Real-time computation and display of out-of-tolerance areas and deviations from nominal
Operator-independent functionality
All-purpose mounting hole pattern for flexible part fixturing
Extremely fast and easy to set up and use
No operator-to-operator variation
No overlays, templates, or Mylars™ necessary
Fully automated measurements
Joystick and barcode reader capability
Accurate to +/- 0.0001″ (2.5 μ)
Ultra-high-resolution precision optics
Automatic image and data collection
Built-in Statistical Process Control
No moving and consumable parts

Images

Overlay before CAD Auto-Alignment Overlay after CAD Auto-Alignment

Proprietary CAD Auto-Align™ and CAD Auto Pass/Fail™ tools work almost instantly
and produce very accurate, operator-independent results

Diameter FOV measurement on a VisionGauge Digital Optical Comparator — Fast and accurate automated measurements

FOV distance measurement on a VisionGauge Digital Optical Comparator

Reverse Engineering a part on a VisionGauge Digital Optical Comparator — Reverse Engineer a part...

Desktop Configuration Dimensions of a 300 Series VisionGauge Digital Optical Comparator — Main unit overall dimensions (Model # VG300DOC-30V-20X)

Desktop Configuration Base Plate Dimensions of a 300 Series VisionGauge Digital Optical Comparator — All-purpose mounting hole pattern for easy & flexible part fixturing (in the case where parts are to be fixtured)

Quickly and easily check flexible and other hard-to-inspect parts against their CAD data on a VisionGauge Digital Optical Comparator — Quickly and easily check flexible and other hard-to-inspect parts against their CAD data

Learn More About Our Small Parts Digital Optical Comparator

Checking, measuring, and inspecting small parts can be challenging — but not with the 300 Series VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator. Specially designed for inspecting small parts, this device offers the efficiency and convenience of other desktop optical comparators in a compact frame. Featuring VisionGauge® proprietary patented and patent-pending technology, this tool is a reliable partner for a comprehensive range of industrial applications. The digital functionality delivers precise measurements and innovative computations for a streamlined inspection process. Instant results and automated functions make it an ideal choice for high-throughput applications.

Request more information on devices in the VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator collection. Contact our experts for additional questions and system pricing.

400 Series Desktop Inspection and Measurement Systems

400 Series Desktop Optical Comparator

The 400 Series VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator is a state-of-the-art inspection and measurement device. This desktop optical comparator is suitable for low-throughput applications.

The optical inspection system is designed with vertical and horizontal configurations and features manual stage movement across three axes for operator-driven reliability. Despite its compact size, this high-performing device offers high resolution, precision optics, and computer-controlled, ultra-bright LED illumination for sharp and clear images. It comes with a single high-resolution monitor that allows a full view of the entire image.

The 400 Series is a cost-effective inspection and measurement system with a complete set of features. It’s equipped with all the advanced and patented software capabilities VisionGauge® systems, including:

CAD Auto-Align™: This patented groundbreaking tool automatically aligns a CAD overlay to a specific part during inspection. Within seconds, it can produce repeatable results even without operator supervision, drastically reducing inspection time and improving measurement accuracy.
CAD Auto-Pass/Fail™ technology: The CAD Auto-Pass/Fail™ tech automatically determines whether a part is within tolerance or deviates from nominal in real time and with great accuracy.
Tooth Checker™: Designed to check parts with teeth, the patent-pending Tooth Checker™ tool automatically locates the crests and roots in the inspected part’s teeth or threads. It helps determine if the parts fall within their specified tolerance band. This tool also works for parts larger than the field of view and can be used in manual and fully automated modes.

Advantages

Advantages of Our Desktop Inspection and Measurement System

This desktop optical comparator is a versatile machine equipped with automatic data collection technology. It can obtain images, gather data, and generate reports without operator-to-operator variation. It’s a convenient tool offering advantages over traditional comparators. These advantages include:

Small footprint: This device features a compact tabletop structure that can accommodate a variety of parts and fixtures. Its space-saving design makes it ideal for inspections conducted within the shop floor or manufacturing facility.
User-friendly interface: The device is built with an intuitive operator interface that ensures accurate results while remaining easy to set up and use.
Flexibility: Single magnification and precision optics, combined with the extended depth of field, allow a long working distance for maximum flexibility.
Convenience: This device’s built-in statistical process control and data exchange capabilities make reporting results easy and convenient. It automatically prepares reports on all collected images, measurements, and statistics for thorough documentation.

Features

Our optical inspection systems are continuously being improved with updates. The constant innovation enables us to cater to a wide range of industrial inspection applications with enhanced speed and accuracy. Our device’s features include:

The VisionGauge® extensive set of software tools for accurate measurements and image analysis
12″ x 12″ measurement envelope
Manual storage movement and inspection on 3 axes
0.25-micron resolution encoders on the X and Y axes
Ultra-bright, repeatable LED computer-controlled illumination
Robust design with no consumable parts
Optional LASER module for Z-axis height measurements
Customizable optical configurations and workholding

Overview Video

Sample Images

CAD Auto-Align™, CAD Auto-Pass/Fail™ result on the VisionGauge Digital Optical Comparator — Patented VisionGauge® CAD Auto-Align™ and CAD Auto-Pass/Fail™ tools provide fast, accurate and operator-independent results

The perfect solution for checking profile tolerances!

High-accuracy measurement tools on a Digital Optical Comparator — The system has a broad set of high-accuracy measurement tools

back-illumination of a part on a Digital Optical Comparator

front-illumination of a part on a Digital Optical Comparator — Both front- and back-illumination are available. Works well on different surfaces and materials, including metals & plastics

Discover Our Desktop Optical Comparators

When it comes to optical inspection technology, the 400 Series VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator leads the industry with its high-performing features. This cost-effective device is built with advanced capabilities and benefits for efficient quality control in various manufacturing operations. It’s suitable for a wide range of industrial applications. Our system simplifies checking parts, obtaining Pass/Fail results, and collecting detailed reports for optimized inspection processes.

Contact us for the prices of our benchtop optical measurement system, or request more information about the 400 Series VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator below.

700 Series 5-Axis Inspection and Measurement Systems

The 700 Series VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator is a 5-Axis Inspection and Measurement System that is widely used by manufacturers across a broad range of industries (including aerospace and power generation) to check EDM- and LASER-drilled holes and slots. It is the ideal solution for the automatic inspection of parts with complex geometries. The 5 axes of motion (X, Y, Z, Rotary, Tilt) allow parts to be secured to an industry-standard chuck and positioned accurately to view the part from all sides and angles.

Cooling Hole Inspection - Verifying Presence, Shape, and Location

The system is able to automatically verify hole presence and accurately measure hole location. The 700 Series VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator is adaptable and supports both round and shaped holes, different surface types with different reflectivity, different viewing angles, etc… VisionGauge® OnLine’s advanced toolset permits programs to locate features with high accuracy and automatically obtain results with a Pass/Fail conclusion based directly on the part’s CAD file specifications. The program can also output the hole offsets, which can then be used to modify EDM drilling programs.

The system provides extremely powerful and innovative software tools for robust component detection, including specialized tools well suited to deal with burrs and splatter. The “Part Reorientation” tool provides the ability to execute full 6-point iterative alignment, and VisionGauge®’s fast and intuitive ‘Operator Review’ mode allows operators to quickly revisit any out-of-tolerances areas. VisionGauge® also supports automatic image and data collection for complete electronic documentation and data-exchange.

The VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator is a very cost-effective, perfectly adapted solution for checking EDM- and LASER-drilled holes and slots. It is rapidly becoming the new standard in the industry!

measurement and inspection of EDM- and LASER-drilled drilled holes and slots

Automatically verify hole presence and accurately measure cooling hole locations.

Advantages

Advantages of the 700 Series VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator

You will find many benefits to using the 700 Series 5-Axis Inspection and Measurement System during the manufacturing process compared to traditional devices or other computerized vision measuring systems. This system goes well-beyond simply producing a report on each part and can significantly enhance the quality of your shop’s inspection operations.

Advantages of incorporating the 700 Series VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator into your shop include:

Quickly, easily, and accurately inspect 100% of the holes on your parts.
The system is easy to program, allowing you to use your CAD data directly and hole positions from your drilling programs.
The operator interface is intuitive, including a barcode-reader and joysticks.
The system supports both round and shaped holes on various surfaces.
Hole offsets can be output, providing feedback to EDM drilling programs.
The mounting system allows parts to go directly from the EDM drilling machine to the inspection system without re-fixturing – a quick and easy process that minimizes stack-up error.
Our system can be equipped with the same working envelope as your EDM drill.
The system is capable of performing 6-Point Iterative Alignment.
Check holes one at a time, looking straight down the hole’s nominal axis, or check multiple holes at once viewing them at an angle (depending on your inspection speed requirements and your part’s coating characteristics).
The system’s dual-source illumination module provides lighting at different angles of incidence (i.e. both near-vertical and low-oblique) for wide applicability across a very broad range of part geometries.
Powerful, adaptive feature-detection software tools can accurately locate drilled holes on different surface types (different reflectivity characteristics, different viewing angles, etc.).
VisionGauge®’s advanced toolset can easily deal with burrs and splatter.
Automatically create reports and collect measurements, statistics, images and other data for complete documentation.

The system comes with an industry-standard chuck mounted on the system’s double-rotary trunnion assembly.

Other mounting systems are also supported.

The new "Gen 2" trunnion setup for the double-rotary assembly of the 700-series VisionGauge Digital Optical Comparator.

These systems are ideal for aircraft engine and gas turbine blade cooling holes inspection and measurement

Features

The 700 Series VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator uses innovative tools and software to optimize quality control and reduce operator error. Our solutions have quality features that make comparators like the 700 Series 5-Axis Inspection and Measurement System stand apart from traditional inspection equipment.

Additional features include:

Motion on five axes (X, Y, and Z axes, plus rotary and tilt) to inspect complex parts
User-friendly interface with direct CAD-to-Part comparison
Includes VisionGauge®’s vast selection of advanced feature-detection and measurement tools
High-resolution optics and imaging
Ultra-bright computer-controlled LEDs present stable illumination with sharp contrast
An extended depth of field allows everything to be perfectly in focus, regardless of the part’s geometry, even in areas of high curvature.
A long working distance gives lots of clearance between the optical system and the part to easily accommodate large and unusually-shaped parts.
The system has a robust shop floor design.
Automatic reports, image collection, statistics, data collection, and data exchange
Intuitive “Operator review” mode to easily evaluate inspection program results
The system comes with an industry-standard chuck mounted on the system’s double-rotary stage assembly, with other mounting systems also supported.

VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparators are the only industrial vision systems that are fully digital, entirely automated, and outfitted with the groundbreaking CAD Auto-Pass/Fail™ and CAD Auto-Align™ capabilities.

Overview Video

Applications

Featured Applications:

Images

a visiongauge system sat next to a computer — The 700 Series VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator 5-axis inspection and measurement system is the ideal solution for the automatic inspection of parts with complex geometries. The Extended 24" x 24" x 24" travel machine with trunnion configuration for big and heavy parts is shown above with a single monitor.

Cooling hole location/detection on coated and un-coated part surfaces

Ideal for both coated & un-coated parts

Ring with cooling holes. For the larger rings, it is typical to use an extended-travel 700 series system to check the hole presence and measure the hole location and geometry.

Adapted feature-detection on unique surfaces

Powerful “adaptive” feature-detection software tools are able to accurately find and locate holes on different surfaces, with different reflectivity, at different viewing angles, etc…

Additional Information

What Are Machine Vision Inspection Systems?

Vision-based inspection systems are cost-effective solutions for maintaining quality control that involve measuring and inspecting images of manufactured parts. They are commonly employed for industrial and manufacturing applications of all types. Modern industrial vision systems have the ability to generate a Pass/Fail report according to the part specifications programmed into the inspection process, alongside more complex insights.

Computer-aided design (CAD) is often the guiding framework for dimensional measurement using vision systems. VisionGauge® machine vision inspection systems, including the 700 Series 5-Axis Inspection and Measurement System, compare a part directly to its CAD/DXF data and automatically produces a Pass/Fail result and detailed measurement report.

Learn More About Industrial Vision Systems

Manufacturing high-quality parts requires close attention to how well the product complies with its design. Defects impact businesses in any industry, but in high-risk industries like aerospace, medical device manufacturing, military and defense, and others, parts must Pass with tight tolerances. Manufacturers conduct quality inspection and measurements using vision systems to ensure their parts are within specifications.

The VisionGauge® Digital Optical Comparator is the most efficient and accurate way to compare a manufactured part to its CAD file. 700 Series 5-Axis Inspection and Measurement Systems are designed for parts with complex geometries in industrial and manufacturing applications with strict quality standards, such as aircraft engine manufacturing. From engines to cooling holes in gas turbine blades, these industrial vision measuring systems conduct reliable inspections and measurements.

Contact us for more information about the 700 Series 5-Axis Inspection and Measurement System or our other computerized vision measuring systems.