Micro-Epsilon presents a new generation of 3D sensors which are based on a common software platform. The surfacecontrol, ­reflectcontrol and scancontrol sensor systems are used for high-resolution geometry and surface measurements and detect the measuring object by scan or by single snapshot allowing fast inspection. In contrast to conventional 3D systems with 2.5D evaluation, Micro-Epsilon’s Valid3D technology ­enables a complete representation and precise evaluation of the 3D point cloud.

The surfacecontrol 3D 3500 inspection system, a 3D snapshot sensor, is designed for inline inspection of geometry, shape, and surfaces in the production line. With a z-axis repeatability of up to 0.4 µm, the sensor sets new standards in high precision 3D metrology. This enables reliable detection of even the smallest deviations in flatness and height. The measurement can be performed on diffuse reflecting surfaces such as metals, plastics, or ceramics with the highest precision and at the same time high speed data processing. In addition to the data output via Gigabit Ethernet, the sensor offers an additional digital I/O interface. The 2D/3D Gateway II supports EtherNet/IP, Profinet and Ethercat connections. Software tools enable precise 3D measurements and surface inspections. GigE Vision compatibility also allows easy integration into third-party image processing software. The comprehensive SDK for customer software integration rounds off the software package.

The reflectcontrol sensor is designed for 3D measurements on reflective and glossy surfaces. The system detects flatness deviations in the range of a few micrometers. The sensor can be used in a stationary mode for monitoring a production line or for inline inspection on a robot. This compact sensor generates a striped pattern which is mirrored by the surface of the measuring object into the sensor cameras. Deviations on the surface cause distortions of this striped pattern, which are evaluated by the software. 

Scancontrol laser scanners are among the most powerful profile sensors worldwide in terms of their accuracy and measuring rate. To generate 3D scans, the scanners are moved over the measuring object or vice versa. The laser scanners from Micro-Epsilon are characterized by high dynamics, precision, and their compact size. Due to the low sensor weight, they are also suitable for mounting on robots. With the scancontrol 3000 and the new scancontrol 3002 series, Micro-Epsilon offers a comprehensive portfolio with numerous measuring ranges, red and blue laser technologies and additional accessories. The scanners are equally convincing for system integrators and for series use in the production line. They can be integrated into image processing software packages via the Ethernet/GigE vision interface.

With the 3D Inspect software tool, Micro-Epsilon has developed a uniform solution for 3D measurement. Their 3D sensors are compatible, regardless of the measuring principle used. For system integrators, this 3D package is also attractive, as high compatibility is enabled via the GenICam standard. The parameterization of the sensors and the recording of the measurement data are done directly in the 3D Inspect software tool. The 3D point cloud generated in this way can then be further processed as desired. Data export in ASCII and STL or PLY format is possible. The new Valid3D technology ensures lossless display and processing of the point clouds. This is how scanned 3D objects can be moved arbitrarily in the coordinate ­system.