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ETALON
LaserTRACER Precisely Calibrates Machine Tools and Metrology Systems |
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The LaserTRACER, designed and manufactured by ETALON (Braunschweig, Germany) and distributed in North America by Optical Gaging Products, Inc. (OGP), is a tracking laser interferometer for calibrating machine tools and/or precision metrology systems. Used in conjunction with ETALON TRAC-CAL software, LaserTRACER determines the position, straightness, squareness, pitch, yaw and roll of all machine axes with sub-micron accuracy.
In use, a retroreflector is mounted on the machine tool or metrology system, and LaserTRACER uses interferometric technology to determine the retroreflector's position as the machine moves it on a predetermined path. Once LaserTRACER calibrates the first machine position, it is moved to the next in a series of four to six predetermined positions within the working volume, and the calibration routine is run again.
At the heart of LaserTRACER is its patented reference sphere, which acts as the center of rotation. A fixed sphere with a form deviation of less than 50 nanometers, the reference sphere is mounted inside the LaserTRACER and serves as a reflector for its interferometer. The reference sphere is mechanically and thermally isolated from LaserTRACER's tracking mechanism and remains stable during LaserTRACER movement. The LaserTRACER interferometer has a resolution of 1 nanometer at a maximum range of 15 meters. Temperature, pressure and humidity sensors automatically compensate for varying environmental conditions.
The time needed for a full machine error mapping in all axes, as well as squareness between axes, is two to four hours. Precise positioning or adjustment of calibration tools is not required, and LaserTRACER calibration can be performed by a single minimally-trained machine operator. LaserTRACER is usable on machine tools and metrology systems of all sizes.
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The ETALON LaserTRACER is available via a North American distribution agreement between ETALON and Optical Gaging Products.
For more information contact:
Optical Gaging Products |
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