Nikon features upgraded LC15Dx noncontact laser scanner

The LC15Dx laser scanner manufactured by the Industrial Metrology Business Unit of Nikon Metrology (Brighton, Mich., U.S.), is a global benchmark for efficient measurement and inspection of manufactured components, especially those with complex freeform geometry such as turbine blades, orthopedic implants and intricate plastic parts. Compatible for use with all metrology platforms and software, a new version of the sensor has been launched with functionality that Nikon says has been significantly upgraded in several key areas to make it more suitable for quality 4.0 inspection applications.

The LC15Dx is certified according to ISO 10360-8, the industry standard for the performance of coordinate measuring machine (CMM) laser scanning devices. The “ISO 10360‐8 Probing size error All” on the device is reported to be one-third better than previous models, delivering more accurate and repeatable dimensional measurements on a scale of 15 microns versus the original 10 microns.

Improvements have been made to the custom-designed, in-house manufactured scanner lens regarding the way in which data captured by the lens and imager is converted into measured data points, improving structural resolution to enable finer surface texture and detail. 

The LC15Dx incorporates a patented Nikon software algorithm that maintains scanning accuracy, speed and data quality by automatically adapting the laser settings in real time at each measured point to match the type and reflectivity of the material being examined. Coupled with a high-grade daylight filter to accommodate different ambient light conditions, it is said to enable the inspection of any material, irrespective of its color, shininess or transparency, without the need for spraying or other surface preparation. This ability has been improved further in the new unit by facilitating better data acquisition from very dark materials. There is even a high ISO mode that can be switched on for coping with black surfaces, including those that have a glossy finish.

Moreover, Nikon reports quicker scanning capabilities after being switched on, raising productivity when inspecting or reverse engineering components. It continues to have zero warm-up time, as an algorithm compensates for any measurements taken while the sensor’s temperature is rising to match that of its environment. New, however, is a halving of boot time to 14 seconds, so the internal computer is ready to receive data much faster. 

According to product manager Kristof Peeters, “Alongside all these improvements is a change of livery to a smart black-and-white appearance, so a user can immediately see they are using the latest sensor version. LC15Dx retrofit kits are available for controllers fitted to all leading makes of the CMM, while a rich array of programming and reporting options is offered by many well-known software providers.”

Alongside these developments, Nikon’s laser scanning models are completely wireless so they can be adapted to support a variety of applications, whether they are mounted on production machines or adapted to metrology equipment.  The noncontact scanners are said to transmit in almost real time over a WiFi link the dense point cloud data they collect, while maintaining the high data throughput, consistency and accuracy of a wired connection. The inspection tool’s operations may also be combined with tactile probing for multi-sensor measuring routines on a CMM, with automation options using a change rack, enabling deep bores or other difficult-to-see internal features to be accessed by a touch-trigger probe.

“Our new wireless scanning technology is ideal for supporting in-process quality control on machining centers and 3D printers, avoiding the time-consuming process of taking a component to a quality control room to be checked, a practice that virtually precludes feedback of measurement data to production,” Peters adds.