Vision measuring systems can measure both 2D and 3D (with an optional touch probe) part features quickly and easily.
These systems work using a video camera, operating through zoom or telecentric lens, to detect the edge on a part (the difference between light and dark areas). In doing so with the aid of software can then compute a complete feature such as a point, a line, an arc, or a circle, or a sphere or cone in 3D.
Vision measuring systems are either manual or CNC where the camera is fixed and the X-Y stage moves under the camera or alternatively for larger measurement volumes as gantry-style systems where the camera assembly moves in X-Y and Z directions above a fixed stage.
The choice of vision measurement system software is an important consideration when buying a new system in order to achieve the optimum measurement capabilities whilst at the same time not compromising on ease of use or flexibility.
The most often asked questions.
Vision measuring systems are an ideal measurement solution to measure small, flat, and flexible parts – either singularly or in batches using the CNC functionality of these systems.
Parts such as gaskets, plastic mouldings, and PCB components are typical of the types of parts most manufacturers are using vision measurement systems.
Vision measuring systems are ideal for measuring machined components, printed circuit boards, gaskets and rings, plastic mouldings and pressed metal components.
Most components are measured in 2D but in some cases, 3D measurements can be made with functions such as auto-focus with the system’s camera or with a touch-trigger probing system. When fitted with a touch probe the vision system becomes a fully-fledged 3D measurement machine.
Vision measuring systems typically have a linear accuracy of +/- 5 microns in the X-Y measurement stage and slightly less in the Z-axis which is more than adequate for most measuring tasks.
Whilst CMMs are the ultimate 3D measuring device, we see a number of customers using a vision system fitted with a touch probe for measurements as being a realistic and practical measurement solution for their business. The ease of use and the simplicity of the vision measurement systems software over complex and complicated CMM software make the vision system an ideal choice for quick and easy shop-floor measurements.
Met Optix proudly offers the complete range of Starrett vision measuring systems and is Starrett’s sales and support Partner for Australia and New Zealand for this range of products.
Met Optix is also a certified service Partner for Starrett with factory-trained staff available for all service and support work, including equipment calibration.
Starrett’s range of vision measuring systems are made in the Starrett Kinemetric Engineering factory in southern California and brings together Starrett’s knowledge and expertise in the manufacture of metrology equipment coupled with the vision systems experience of the Kinemtric Engineering team which was acquired by Starrett in 2007.
With this experience and continuous on-going technological develops Starrett vision measuring systems are an ideal choice for any QA lab or quality assurance department in a manufacturing environment.
Manual: MV and MVR ranges
CNC: AV and AVR ranges
CNC Multi-Sensor: AV and new AVX ranges
Digital comparators: HDV and HVR ranges
As well as vision measuring systems Starrett also produce a range of cross-over systems that are digital comparators providing the accuracy and repeatability to comparator system bringing them into the digital age.
These systems are essentially horizontal comparators fitted with a video camera and telecentric lens system that detects edges on the parts or components being measured. Once edges are detected and measured features can then be computed with the aid of M3 software.
Our support services for Starrett vision measuring systems are focused on providing the best possible customer service experience for all customers at all times.
The range of services offered is extensive and starts with basic technical telephone consultations and then through to on-site calibrations, repair and maintenance finally. Finally, more complex tasks such as machine or equipment upgrades are also available.
Met Optix is a certified service partner for Starrett optical and vision products in Australia and New Zealand with factory-trained staff on hand to handle any query or question. We are fully supported and backed-up by the strong Starrett support team based in Singapore and California for Starrett’s range of vision measuring systems.
The latest version of the Metlogix M3 software – V3 has just been released.
With new advanced features and additional capabilities, this new version of M3 software is now a clear market-leader in dimensional measurement software.
Starrett is at the forefront of developing repeatable measurement solutions for new applications in the industrial, aerospace, medical, mining, and automotive sectors.
In Australia and New Zealand Starrett vision measuring systems are now found across a wide range of industries including, medical, electrical, and general repetition and CNC machining and engineering, with the most popular model being the AVR300-Z-M3 system with its 300x200mm stage and 200mm Z-axis movement coupled with the M3 software from Metlogix. An optional Renishaw PH6/TP20 touch probe system is also popular giving highly repeatable height measurement capabilities to the system.
These systems are highly reliable, very repeatable and accurate, and ideal for workshops and machine shops where a CMM may be too complex to run and operate for the range of parts being measured, particularly when the touch probe option is added to measure turned features such as diameters.
Starrett is a leader in the development and manufacture of high-quality vision measuring systems and is gaining market share in Australia and New Zealand. The range includes both manual and CNC systems as well as field-of-view and horizontal digital vision systems that can replace older-style optical comparators.
As well as supplying the core measurement systems a full range of optional accessories, spare parts, calibration artefacts and other items are available from Met Optix for all Starrett systems sold.
Vision measurement systems are a key resource for any robust quality assurance system. They are reliable, repeatable and produce accurate 2D measurement results and report feature variation and trends. Whilst a number of manufacturers have both CMMs and vision measurement systems as part of their QC lab, smaller businesses still can’t afford the cost of a CMM – even though the relative cost of CMMs has fallen over the years, and often elect to start with a vision measurement system.
Vision measurement systems are now commonly supplied with touch-trigger probing systems such as Renishaw PH6 fixed probe head coupled with TP20 probe system to enable features such as spheres and cones to be measured which enhances the capabilities of vision systems to full 3D measurement.
Firstly, identify, if known, the largest component that needs to be measured and then choose a system accordingly, noting the height of the components to be measured to ensure enough clearance in the Z-axis.
The choice of CNC or manual is usually dictated by the number of components to be measured and the frequency of measurement tasks.
Other considerations such as zoom or telecentric lens and lighting choices need to be made. The most popular Starrett vision measurement system sold is the AVR300-Z-M3-3LED TP model, which has a 300 x 200 x 200 mm measuring volume, three channels of lighting, the popular M3 software, and a touch probe for Z-axis measurements.
Metlogix M3 software is now becoming the predominant and preferred software offering for Starrett vision measuring machines. The M3 software offers users convenience, ease of use and an intuitive touch-screen interface.
When considering the purchase of a new vision measuring system a number of other items must also be considered. These include fixturing, calibration and verification artefacts.
Met Optix offers the Open-Site™ fixturing system for vision systems. These fixturing systems feature an anodized aluminium rail which is attached to the X-Y stage of the machine and a polycarbonate part mounting plate.
Manufacturers recommend annual calibration of vision measuring systems by a certified calibration partner. Met Optix has factory-trained technicians able to perform the calibration task as determined by Starrett.
Verification of the linear accuracy X-Y and Z-stage is important with all vision measuring systems. Met Optix can provide a full range of verification artefacts to check both linear accuracy and video pixel size.
A range of fixture components for vision systems, including plates, rails and clamps.
