By using planning software based on CAD
data, larger test objects are separated
into several measuring positions that are
approached one after another. The system is
designed in such a way that several robots
can operate in one cell on the same test
object in order to adapt inspection times to
suit production cycle times. dimensions are up to approx. 200mm x
300mm. The sensor system is integrated
into a protective enclosure/cabinet.
The components to be inspected are
introduced to manually or automatically
into the system. surfaceCONTROL Compact
is ideal for inline inspection of injection
moulded or die cast components.
INSPECTION OF LARGE
COMPONENTS A CHALLENGE FOR MANY
INDUSTRIES
Three different versions of surfaceCONTROL
are available. surfaceCONTROL Robotic is
for the inspection of large components. By
mounting the sensor head to a robot arm,
the system can be adapted very quickly
to different inspection applications. All
six degrees of freedom of the robot are
available. Depending on the requirements, a
robot with a specific radius can be selected.
If the component is also positioned on a
rotary table (i.e. as the seventh axis) it can
be turned towards the sensor in such a
way that the projection of the robot can be
reduced. With surfaceCONTROL Robotic, the
complete inspection of large components
using only one sensor is possible.
MOBILE INSPECTION SYSTEM
surfaceCONTROL Mobile is the ideal
solution for surface inspection of
components in different locations. This
portable system, which comprises of a
laptop and a sensor mounted on a tripod,
can be safely transported to its destination
in a carrying case. The standard measuring
surface is approx. 410mm x 300mm.
INSPECTION OF SMALL TEST
PIECES
surfaceCONTROL Compact is available for
the inspection of small test pieces whose
124
PECM Issue 39
The perceived quality of smooth, defect-
free surfaces is determined by the look
and feel, colour and shape consistency
of the surface. High quality finished
surfaces are therefore a challenge for many
industries, not just automotive. Aerospace
components, domestic appliances,
entertainment devices and consumer
electronics also require high quality
finished surfaces.
Although inspectors are able to recognise
a high proportion of surface defects
reliably and quickly, visual evaluation is
often subjective and depends heavily on
several factors, including tiredness, lack of
concentration and varying light conditions.
The aim of surface inspection is to achieve
an objective, reproducible evaluation of
surface deviations in order to quickly and
reliably make decisions with respect to
component tolerances.
tests. Furthermore, flush rivet heads and
the smallest possible rivet indentations
in the outer skin of the aircraft are
technically and aesthetically critical. In
addition to versatile applications on the
outer skin of an aircraft, the interior also
offers a variety of potential applications
including the inspection of flaps on hand
luggage compartments, armrests and wall
coverings.
CONSUMER ELECTRONICS
Sophisticated smartphones, tablets and
notebooks not only stand out as versatile,
technical equipment but also due to their
high quality housings and finish. In order
to reduce weight and materials, the wall
thickness is often reduced to a minimum.
This could cause slight sink marks and
other discontinuities on the surface, which
become visible under certain lighting
conditions.
DOMESTIC APPLIANCES
An increasing number of sophisticated
household appliances are now designed
and equipped with high quality surfaces.
For example, freestanding refrigerators are
often a decorative eye-catcher in a modern
kitchen. Washing machines also match
modern interior designs with their flawless,
attractive appearance. This is why an
immaculate surface for domestic devices is
becoming increasingly important.
AEROSPACE
Flawless surfaces with a uniform
appearance are equally important in the
aerospace industry. World-class inspection
services are therefore needed, whereby
small bumps and dents caused during
fuselage mounting are only recognisable
after the painting process and often lead
to complaints during customer acceptance
For more information on the
surfaceCONTROL system, please call
the Micro-Epsilon sales department
on 0151 355 6070 or email info@
micro-epsilon.co.uk