Precision 3D surface inspection for shiny and diffuse items (as well as quality scanning)

Micro-Epsilon offers myriad solutions for 3D surface inspection. The reflectCONTROL and surfaceCONTROL systems are intended for fast and reliable inspection of mat and shiny surfaces based on deflectometry and fringe projection … so even the smallest of defects can be recognized reliably. The scanCONTROL laser profile scanners operate almost independent of surface properties and generate 3D point clouds which can be used for other evaluation and processing purposes.

reflectCONTROL is for surface inspection of shiny objects. The compact sensor outputs a striped pattern on the display. This striped pattern is mirrored over the surface of the measurement object into the sensor cameras. Deviations on the surface will cause deviations from this striped pattern, which are evaluated by software. The compact deflectometry sensor can be integrated as a stationary system or guided over the measurement object by a robot. The localized deviations and defects are evaluated and displayed.

scanCONTROL laser-profile scanners are among the highest performing profile sensors in the world, equipped with an integrated, powerful controller that calculates two-dimensional surface profiles. 3D measurements using laser scanners from Micro-Epsilon can be carried out during the ongoing operation of the production line — during continuous flow and with continuous materials, for example.

The laser scanners reach high lateral resolutions up to 8 µm, which enables them to recognize particularly small deviations. Laser profile scanners are also used for measurements and surface inspection of extruded plastic parts such as window profiles, wooden boards in a continuous process, rotating tires and clutch discs, and the inspection of train rails at high speeds.

The surfaceCONTROL series is for the inspection of diffuse surfaces such as metallic surfaces (uncoated, electroplated, EPD), plastic surfaces and ceramics. The sensor based on the fringe projection principle scans the surface and generates a 3D point cloud. This point cloud is subsequently evaluated using specially developed tools to recognize small defects and discontinuities on the surface. Sensors with different measurement areas and resolutions are available. For more information, visit micro-epsilon.com.