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Compact, High-Resolution 3D Data Acquisition

Dec. 19, 2011
Advanced LED lighting makes inspection, quality control more efficient
The lightweight Comet L3D 5M camera for optical measuring systems is called an ideal entry-level solution for users who would like to use various optical measuring technologies without compromising on technology, service, and data quality.

STEINBICHLER OPTOTECHNIK GmbH introduced the new 5-megapixel sensor Comet L3D 5M camera for optical measuring systems. "In comparison to the basic model Comet L3D, the ‘5M’ offers improved camera resolution for a higher level of surface detail,” explained Hans Weiger. “Even highly structured components can be captured in great detail. By doing so, we achieve a maximum measuring field size of 500 mm. Besides this, the Comet L3D 5M also has a newly developed pulsed operation adapted to the LED, which provides for a higher light intensity."

The developer said its compact Comet L3D 5M makes 3D data acquisition more efficient because of its LED lighting technology. The highly portable device does this easily, quickly, and precisely, and therefore economically — making it an entry-level option for users who would like to use the wide range of optic measuring technologies without compromising on technology, service, or data quality.

The Comet L3D 5M is also effective for quality-control applications. The solid construction and the dust-proof optical components allow the device to be used under industrial conditions, and the compact dimensions and overall lightness mean users can use conventional accessories (e.g., a camera tripod) to position the sensor. Transport and commissioning of the complete system require minimum effort.

The sensor’s BLUE-LED technology provides for allows fast recording of up to 5M measuring points. In the case of components with many features, this procedure is faster than measuring using conventional, tactile systems, according to the developer. The contact-less measuring principle of the Comet L3D 5M is particularly notable when measuring delicate objects, which is difficult to do with tactile sensors and conventional measuring machines. The low working distance also reduces problems, even in confined spaces. The sensor housing of the Comet L3D has Steinbichler’s proven single-camera technology. The intelligent software concept also provides for the combination with photogrammetric measuring procedures to digitalize large objects.

Besides quality control and inspection, particularly of small and medium-sized parts, the 3D sensor has other applications: actual/target comparison of measuring data for the CAD data record, tool and mold manufacture, tool reconstruction, scanned data to generate milling paths, recording of actual data after tool release, the design field, when scanning design models for CAD further processing and documentation, rapid manufacturing, when recording 3D data for rapid prototyping procedures, reverse engineering and 3D scanning as well as when recording historical art objects, for example for archaeology, etc.

Steinbichler Optotechnik GmbH develops and supplies high-precision optical measurement and sensor technology, as well as hardware and software. Visit www.steinbichler.com.