Fraunhofer Institute for Physical Measurement Techniques IPM
Systems that involve rotation typically use rings, drums, sleeves, shafts, axles, hubs, and spindles. The function and service life of these systems, including motors and gearboxes, depend largely on the precision with which their cylindrical components are manufactured. Fast and accurate measurement methods are necessary to ensure component quality and to test important geometric features, such as roundness, cylindricity, inner and outer diameters, and concentricity.
A few seconds per component
The optical cylinder measuring system (OZM) developed by Fraunhofer IPM can measure cylindrical components with high precision in less than five seconds per piece. Depending on the component and its surface roughness, the system achieves a reproducibility and accuracy in the range of 1 µm. During inspection, components are placed on an air-bearing turntable, centered pneumatically, and measured using chromatic confocal distance sensors. This allows all measurement data to be recorded and evaluated in a single, quick rotation. During measurement, the components are placed on one of their end faces. To ensure accurate measurements, the components must remain stable during rotation. With OZM, this stability is achieved using component-specific stops.
Flexibility regarding component size and material
The OZM can be adapted to fit components with diameters ranging from a few centimeters to about 30 cm. The process is suitable for testing the geometry of components made from the most common materials, such as metal, plastic, and glass.
Significantly faster than tactile methods
The open design of the OZM allows components to be automatically loaded into the testing system in a matter of seconds and removed after measurement. In combination with a suitable handling system, a line cycle time of five seconds can be achieved. This makes the process more than ten times faster than established tactile methods.
Direct integration into the production line
Fraunhofer IPM adapts the OZM to specific measurement tasks. The turnkey system is designed for direct integration into the production line and features an automation interface.
