Calibration of measuring and machine tools by laser tracker and LaserTRACER

TRAC-CAL is a highly accurate method for the volumetric calibration of machine tools and measuring instruments. Its flexibility, speed and outstanding accuracy make it the ideal method for machines of almost every size.

TRAC-CAL measurement principle is solely based on the use of the laser wavelength.

 

alt

 

 

The method can optimally be performed with the LaserTRACER or LaserTRACER-MT, instrumnents that are especially designed for this application. For large machines (axis length >5 m) also the application of conventional laser trackers (LEICA, FARO) can be considered. The time needed for a full error mapping of a machine takes 1 to 3 h. The method does not require precise adjustment or positioning of the instruments and can be performed by a trained machine operator after short instruction time. After a few steps all sytematic geometric deviations of cartesian and rotary axes can be calcualted:

  • Positioning deviation
  • Straightness (horizontal and vertical)
  • Pitch
  • Yaw
  • Roll 
  • Squareness between the axes

 

How TRAC-CAL works

The application of TRAC-CAL is simple: The reflector is mounted to the tool or probe fixture and the LaserTRACER or Lasertracker is placed at several different predefined positions inside the working volume. At each position the machine follows a predefined path.

View movie (WMV: 4MB)

 

The measuring beam automatically tracks the reflector. No precise positioning, adjustment or hardware interfacing anymore! In 1 to 3 h all geometrical errors are evaluted and can be used for compensation.

TRAC-CAL views

The user-friendly software is used to plan the measurement configuration, perform the measurement and evaluate the results.

 

New: Even faster with "On the fly"! See more here.

 

Comparison with independent methods

The TRAC-CAL method has been developed and verified at the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) in Germany and the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) in the United Kingdom and is used there for the calibration of high precision measuring machines. It's proven for example with great success at high precision CMMs and machine tools. A comparison with independent reference procedures (Zerodur hole plates) shows consistence in sub-micron regime.

 

 

Do you want more information?


ETALON AG
Tel  +49 531 592 1981
Fax +49 531 592 1979
E-mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it