PRODUCT REVIEWS
X-ray CT automated inspection systems
Nikon IMBU has launched three new models in its VOXLS range of X-ray CT ( computed tomography ) systems for non-destructive inspection . The introduction of the 30 Series , says Nikon , fills a specific need in the industry for users looking for an automation-ready system with the versatility to meet a wide range of industrial applications .
“ The high-performance VOXLS 30 C 225 , 30- C 320 and 30 C 450 models are now available to order and have maximum source energies of 225kV , 320kV and 450kV respectively for examining parts of various densities and sizes . They also have a more compact footprint than our 40 Series while maintaining advanced features traditionally exclusive to larger , more expensive solutions ,” the company told ISMR .
The systems are designed for automated operations across the production sector , especially for quality control in factories producing lithium-ion batteries or additively manufactured components . The automotive , aerospace , medical and pharmaceutical industries are additional target markets and applications will also be found in materials science , natural sciences and academia .
“ At the core of this series is a metrologygrade , granite-based manipulator coupled with rigid steel towers , which provides a thermally stable and solid construction . Precision motors , ballscrew drives and encoders ensure precise positioning and accurate movement of all axes , including the synchronous vertical motion of the X-ray sources and detectors ,” added the company .
The 30 Series complements Nikon ’ s flagship VOXLS 40 C 450 , a larger capacity model launched in early 2023 . Both 40 Series and 30 Series systems ’ operation is enhanced by the manufacturer ’ s extensive CT acquisition technologies and reconstruction algorithms
( including X . Tend Helical CT ; Offset . CT ; Panel Shift ; Pixel Split CT ; Half . Turn CT and Tilted CT ).
Automation in focus
Dr . Andrew Mathers , Nikon ’ s X-ray and CT product manager , added : “ Automation at multiple levels is a major focus of the new 30 Series , from Batch CT providing efficiency gains for technicians to full factory integration with robotic handling and automated inspection via Nikon ’ s OPC UA Interface .”
To further facilitate automation , the systems feature motorised bi-parting radiation doors that open and close in less than five seconds , behind which the cabinet interior can accommodate items up to 1,000mm in diameter by 1,370mm tall . The 30 Series ’ 225kV model offers scan volume within its size class , while all models offer maximum scanning volumes of more than 600mm diameter by more than one metre high . The systems are powered by Nikon ’ s proprietary X-ray source technology , including its 225kV Rotating . Target 2.0 and 450kV reflection target .
Dr . Mathers explained : “ Nikon ’ s Rotating . Target technology provides continuous operation even at 450 W ; three times greater power density than conventional reflection targets and significantly higher X-ray photon flux . All these factors add up to dramatically faster scan times and better signal-to-noise ratio without loss of resolution .”
The 30 Series cabinets utilise a manipulatorinterlocked , glass outer door to give the operator visibility into the enclosure when the inner radiation safety doors are open . This design enables confident positioning of the scan object , minimising the risk of collision with the X-ray source and detector while providing a physical safety barrier between the operator and the moving manipulator . Multiple internal high-resolution video cameras provide a view , even with the inner radiation safety doors shut and X-rays on .
Dr . Mathers concluded : “ As manufacturing requirements become ever more stringent , the capabilities and throughput of inspection solutions must continue to rise to meet the demand and help manufacturers to achieve the ultimate goal of zero-defect parts . The VOXLS 30 Series range not only enables companies to meet their current inspection needs but will also drive the design and development of higher quality products .” n
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:// industry . nikon . com
Real-time optimisation software
Opturion , a global specialist in advanced optimisation and decision-making software , has launched into the UK market , marking a significant step in the company ’ s international expansion . Leslie De Koninck , Opturion ’ s Chief Technology Officer , will be based in the UK overseeing the company ’ s strategic initiatives in the region .
Although this marks the launch of Opturion in the UK , the company can claim UK roots . The founder of Opturion , Professor Mark Wallace , a specialist in discrete optimisation in the Faculty of Information Technology at Monash University , moved there from Imperial College in 2004 . He then worked on an optimisation software platform called G12 and founded Opturion to commercialise it .
Opturion , which helps to solve complex optimisation problems across diverse industries ( such as transport , energy , manufacturing and construction ) brings modern algorithms and AI machine learning techniques to empower businesses .
“ By optimising operations , streamlining processes and enhancing efficiency , we enable organisations to meet customer service guarantees and achieve new levels of productivity and competitiveness . It is particularly used by corporates needing answers to big strategic direction decisions as well as operational input with precise , time-sensitive data to inform decisionmaking ,” explained the company .
Commenting on the UK move , Alan Dormer , Managing Director , Opturion , said : “ We know that the UK market is at a pivotal moment with businesses increasingly investing in technologies that drive efficiency . Like many markets , the UK still relies on Excel spreadsheets for planning and scheduling . But the growing focus on compliance is becoming a big driver for UK adoption of our services and the need to focus on the right data rather than data overload , is a common problem we have identified .” n
www . opturion . com
92 | ismr . net | ISMR November 2023