Nikon LC15Dx scanner closes the gap between laser and tactile probe accuracy

The LC15Dx is described as the first CMM laser scanner to benefit from a high quality Nikon lens and receive the Nikon branding. Thanks to this lens, solid state laser scanner technology and an innovative method calibration, the LC15Dx achieves a probing accuracy of 2.5 µm and a multi-stylus test accuracy of 6 µm in tests comparable to EN/10360-2 and -5. A thermal stabiliser within the scanner body eliminates the uncertainty and delay caused when the laser scanner is used before it has reached operating temperature. Probe tip compensation errors are also eliminated by using non-contact triangulation between the laser source, workpiece and CCD sensor to measure the surface of the workpiece directly. The LC15Dx can be used in the inspection of a wide variety of high precision parts and geometry, including small details, semi-rigid parts and the more demanding materials, and allows a greater range and mix of surface materials, finishes, colours and transitions to be measured more efficiently without user interaction, manual tuning and part spraying. Nikon's third-generation enhanced scanner performance technology maintains accuracy, speed and data quality by intelligently adapting the laser settings for each measured point in real time. Unwanted reflections are neutralised by an advanced software filter, while changes in ambient light are absorbed by a high grade daylight filter. Manufacturers can gain a full appreciation of the dimensional quality of their products without compromising cycle times. As the LC15Dx passes over the workpiece mounted on a CMM, a laser line is projected onto the surface. The line measures 70,000 points per second at intervals of 22 µm. As the entire part is checked against the design intent CAD model, any areas of concern are immediately highlighted using colour mapping. Further investigation and analysis is possible using fly-outs, sections and a library of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing. In situations where a single sensor technology is insufficient for measuring all the features, the LC15Dx can be combined with a tactile probe and change rack to create a versatile fully automated multi-sensor CMM. Depending on the application, both technologies can be used independently or together within the same inspection program. The LC15Dx is available with any Nikon Metrology CMM and can be retrofitted to existing CMMs fitted with CMM controllers from Aberlink, Deva, Coord3, Dukin, LK, Hexagon DEA, Hexagon Brown & Sharpe, Hexagon Sheffield, Mitutoyo, Mora, Renishaw, Wenzel, Werth, Zeiss and probe heads Renishaw PH10M, PH10MQ, PHS and Hexagon CW43.