Nikon Metrology offers its next-generation Laser Radar inspection system. This Laser Radar, re-named APDIS (short for Accurate Precision Distance Scanning), offers precise, no-touch measurement capabilities designed to boost quality and efficiency on automotive and other large-scale production lines.
"Laser Radar's ability to precisely measure in-line and near line applications saves time while contributing to quality improvements in the complex manufacturing process in both the automotive and aerospace industries," said Jim Clark, President, The Americas for Nikon Metrology. "With APDIS, Nikon has delivered its most advanced laser radar yet, and the greater productivity, usability and reliability of the system will be an invaluable asset to all of our manufacturing partners."
Greater Productivity
APDIS is capable of measuring almost any surface, providing measurements of two to three seconds per feature to identify quality issues early on. A built-in orientation sensor allows for measurements in any orientation when robot mounted, with auto detection to load calibration data automatically. Additionally, a direct surface vibration measurement capability allows installations and machines to be analyzed safely and remotely with the inbuilt laser technology.
Precise control over the scan path and accurate, point cloud-based feature measurements keep data sets small. Holes, slots and other sheet metal features can each be measured in a few seconds and specific surface points at several per second. "Combined with fast movements between features, it enables short measurement times to be achieved. Even traditionally troublesome features such as studs can be scanned and measured rapidly without the need for adapters," said a company spokesperson.
To help ensure quality visuals, a high-definition Nikon camera coupled with new Nikon confocal optics offers better viewing of what is being inspected, helping to deliver the right data in real-time.
"The enhanced measurement productivity delivered with APDIS offers up to 10x faster measurement with greater precision and accuracy than conventional technologies," said Ghassan Chamsine, Vice President of Engineering, Nikon Metrology. "Ultimately, fast, accurate measurements save manufacturers product development time and production expenses."
Greater Usability
APDIS is 40% lighter and 25% smaller than the previous generation of Laser Radar. The smaller size and a shorter range-from .5 meters (1.6')-allows it to fit into tight factory spaces as well as for ease of movement around the production floor.
Another improvement is a rapid warmup time, which is now 15 minutes from power on.
Greater Reliability
By closely monitoring production quality during the early build phase, the manufacturing process can be instantly adjusted when variances occur over time, reducing the risk for flaws and costly fixes. The touchless technology offered by APDIS allows for less risk of harming parts or the Laser Radar itself, removing unnecessary line stoppages due to part collisions.
The APDIS scanner is sealed to protect the laser system from the dust and water often found in manufacturing facilities and meets the rigorous industry standards of IP54 (IEC 60529).
Models
APDIS is available in four models including the enhanced MV430E and MV450E editions with a 30-meter (98.4') or 50-meter (164') radius measuring range, respectively. These versions include Enhanced Feature Scan technology, offering up to double the feature measurement speed over previous laser radars. Two standard versions (MV430 and MV450) are for applications where top speed and vibration analysis are not required. Length measurement accuracies for all models range from 28 µm at 2 meters (6.56') to 313 µm at 30 meters (98.4'). The minimum range is also shorter at 0.5 meter (1.6').
"APDIS makes easier and more efficient repetitive and complex parts measurement at very close range and from a distance," said Clark. "Designed primarily with automotive manufacturing in mind, APDIS is also ready for use in aerospace, energy and other large-scale industrial or scientific environments."
For more information contact:
Nikon Metrology, Inc.
12701 Grand River Rd.
Brighton, MI 48116
810-220-4360
sales.nm-us@nikon.com
www.nikonmetrology.com