Noncontact vision probe introduced

Renishaw has introduced the RVP vision measurement probe for use with its REVO 5-axis measurement system on coordinate measuring machines (CMMs). The probe increases the system’s multisensory capability by adding noncontact inspection to its existing touch-trigger, high-speed tactile scanning and surface finish measurement capability.

Noncontact inspection is preferable for certain applications, such as measuring thin sheet metal parts, components with large numbers of holes as small as 0.5 mm, and other parts that are not suited to tactile measurement.

The system consists of a probe and various modules that are automatically interchangable with all other probe options. Data from multiple sensors is automatically referenced to a common datum. This flexibility means that the optimum tool can be selected to inspect a range of features, all on one CMM platform.

Part illumination for the noncontact probe is provided by integrated, programmable LED lighting inside each module. Background feature enhancement also is available using backlighting combined with custom part fixturing.

The system is managed by the company's I++ DME compliant interface, and full user functionality is provided by its MODUSTM metrology software, which has been enhanced to include the noncontact probe's configuration, image processing with application-specific options, and automatic image storage for review and further analysis.