The Top 4 Biggest Myths About Optical Measurement System
Myth #1: All optical measurement systems are the same.
Fact: Optical measurement systems vary from one another.
There are three primary types of measurement equipment— precision hand tools, contact sensor systems, and non-contact sensor systems.
An optical measurement system is considered a non-contact sensor system. It is different from a precision hand tool or contact sensor system. An optical measurement system works by collecting data for 2D (XY) to 3D (XYZ) measurements through technology like optical lens, camera, laser, X-ray, illuminations, structure, or light.
They are essential in research applications, production control, and design.
Non-contact sensor systems are more precise than precision hand tools and contact sensor systems. They can also be manually operated, semi-, or fully automated.
Some optical measurement systems include optical comparators, multisensor measuring machines, 2D and 3D laser scanners.
Myth #2: Any optical measurement system can be used for any industry.
Fact: The type of optical measurement system to be used depends on the industry.
Many industries like aerospace engineering, automotive, electronics, energy, medical, storage, and telecommunications make use of optical measurement systems.
Some optical measurement equipment is more suitable for specific industries, depending on the parts that are measured or inspected. To select the correct type of optical measurement system, consider the following factors:
- Part size and shape: Are your products smaller than 30 microns or larger than 700mm? Are your products’ 2-Dimensional with flat/odd-shaped parts or 3-Dimensional with intricate/symmetrical parts? Non-contact scanning like 3D scanning is mainly used for objects with complex shapes and contoured surfaces.
- Type and characteristics of materials used: Are your products made of plastic/metal or a combination? Are they transparent or opaque, hard, soft or easily deformed, smooth or rough as well as shiny or matte?
- Geometric dimensioning and tolerance requirement: This can be seen from the product’s blueprint.
To select the right optical measurement system, it is crucial to understand your inspection requirements and select the most suitable measurement equipment to make your manufacturing process more efficient and effective.
Myth #3: There is no need to calibrate the optical measurement system once it is on-site.
Fact: Proper care and maintenance for the measurement system will ensure more accurate results.
To get optimal measurement results, it is essential to calibrate your system regularly and create maintenance routines to clean the measuring machine, check the filters and qualify the reference sensor.
Work with a vendor who has thoroughly trained service engineers that can fix and calibrate your machines quickly. This way, your system will also run more smoothly for an extended period.
Myth #4: Only 1 type of sensor can be used for each vision measurement system.
Fact: Multisensor measurement is available.
Multisensor measurement systems have different types of sensors like vision, touch probe, and laser sensors. These multisensor machines are beneficial for difficult-to-reach part features. This allows manufacturers to measure the part with greater precision and less time, with lower capital expenses and operating costs.
Multisensor metrology is a preferred quality control technology for manufacturers to develop, maintain, and improve the quality of precision components.
Optical Gaging Products (OGP) pioneered the SmartScope multisensor measurement systems, which combine optical, laser, and tactile sensors for greater versatility of the multi-sensor measurement system.
Get Your Vision Measurement System Today
At Optical Gaging Products (OGP), we provide reliable, high-quality optical measurement systems for the greatest performance and precision. For over 75 years, OGP has consistently created innovative systems and sensors to tackle complex measurement challenges. Contact us at (65) 6741 8880 or email to contact@smartscope.com.sg today.