Nikon's updated LC15Dx laser scanner offers higher accuracy and resolution

For more than a decade, the LC15Dx laser scanner manufactured by Nikon's Industrial Metrology business has been the global benchmark for the efficient measurement and detection of manufactured components, particularly those with complex degrees of freedom - forming geometry, such as turbine blades, orthopaedic implants and complex plastic parts. Compatible with all industry-leading metering platforms and software, new versions of the sensor have been launched with significantly upgraded capabilities in several key areas.

LC15Dx has been certified to ISO 10360-8, the industry standard for the performance of CMM laser scanning equipment. The "ISO 10360-8 detects size error All" on the new device is one-third better (10 microns instead of 15 microns) than on the previous device, so the scanner is able to provide more accurate and repeatable size measurements, very close to using a tactile probe

Improved ways to convert data captured by lenses and imagers into measured data points, improved structural resolution, and finer surface textures and details can be seen. Nikon lenses are manufactured in-house using glass produced in-house by the group and custom-designed for this laser scanning application, enhancing resolution by avoiding the use of off-the-shelf third-party lenses that are only close to ideal specifications.

The LC15Dx is always based on a patented Nikon software algorithm that maintains scanning accuracy, speed and data quality by automatically adjusting the laser Settings in real time at each measurement point to match the type and reflectivity of the material being examined. Combined with advanced daylight filters to adapt to different ambient light conditions, it can detect any material, regardless of color, shine or transparency, and without spraying or other surface treatments. This capability has been further improved in the new device by facilitating better data acquisition from very dark materials. There is even a high ISO mode that can be turned on for black surfaces, including those with glossy surfaces.

The instrument can start scanning faster than before after being turned on, thereby increasing productivity when examining or reverse-engineering components. It continues to maintain a zero warm-up time because the algorithm compensates for any measurements taken as the sensor temperature rises to match its ambient temperature. However, the new feature is to halve the startup time to 14 seconds, so the internal computer can be ready to receive data much faster. This upgrade increases metering productivity by allowing almost instant operations.

Product Manager Kristof Peeters said, "In addition to all these improvements, the uniform has been changed to a smart black and white look, so users can immediately see that they are using the latest sensor version. The LC15Dx retrofit kit is available for controllers installed on all leading brands of coordinate measuring machines [CMMS], while many reputable software providers offer a wealth of programming and reporting options."

As with all laser scanners, the new unit can provide a large amount of point cloud data in a very short time to get a full picture of what is being investigated, whether it is prototyping, production components or assembly. Rich information supports color-coded 3D CAD to part mapping to quickly understand process changes.

Laser scanning is a non-contact testing tool, so there is no risk of deforming flexible items such as foam or rubber or damaging precision samples. Operation can be combined with tactile detection by multi-sensor measurement routines on the CMM, using automated options for replacement racks that allow access to deep holes or other hard-to-see interior features via trigger probes.

"Our latest LC15Dx laser scanner improves the resolution and accuracy of data acquisition, making it more suitable for quality 4.0 detection applications," Peeters said. Continuous feedback of measurement information to the production line ensures product consistency by preventing parameters from going out of tolerance, avoiding the expense of parts obsoletion, rework, and product recalls."

Source: Laser Net