Quality - Nikon

1:15 to 2:10 p.m. / Room W-192-A

Session Topic: Laser Radar as a Horizontal Arm CMM Replacement

For many decades CMM’s have been the dominant tool for customers to understand the quality and performance of their components across the various stages of product development. From conceptual design, to manufacturing and process control, the CMM has set the standard for accuracy and reliability. However, almost as well-known as their benefits are shortcomings. A large footprint and the necessity for a temperature controlled room means the component must be brought to the CMM. Components too large for the CMM bed can be impossible to measure. It can also be difficult to program and avoid collisions with the part and tooling.

The laser radar from Nikon Metrology Inc. has emerged as a viable option for customers to address their measurement needs and shortcomings of the CMM. The laser radar is a completely automatable, non-contact measuring device with up to a 50m range and accuracies similar to a horizontal arm CMM. It is currently being used both in temperature-controlled areas and directly on manufacturing lines with applications covering the manufacturing spectrum from reverse engineering to tooling certification to process control. Parts can be measured directly where they are manufactured, so troubleshooting root issue analysis can be shortened dramatically.

The presentation will discuss the principles of the laser radar operation and how it performs versus competing technologies, such as horizontal arm CMM, complete with results and benchmarking studies. We will also discuss how real world customers are taking advantage of the unique characteristics this system provides.

Jon Koepl

Laser Radar

Product Specialist

Nikon Metrology Inc.

Since 2010, Jon Koepl has worked with Nikon Metrology Inc., primarily focused on laser radar, where he works with hardware and software to meet the increasing needs of customers in aerospace and automotive industries.

Nikon is a leader in optical instrumentation and the only microscope company to manufacture its own glass, ensuring quality assurance. With over 90 years in the field, Nikon has always been at the forefront of optical and technological innovation, promoting creativity and trustworthiness as part of the company’s global mission statement.

IMTS 2016 Booth #E-5060

www.nikonmetrology.com