Fastener Testing

For over ten years, VICIVISION has specialised in the production of optical measuring machines  for turned and cylindrical parts across multiple industries. The use of non-contact metrology solutions reduces inspection times while increasing throughput and yield.

VICIVISION’s optical machines measure the external profile of cylindrical components both statically and dynamically in a matter of seconds – from simple diameters, lengths, and threads, to more complex form errors.

These unique advantages in technology and capability have returned a strong international response from a wide range of demanding industries. Because of this, VICIVISION has developed a specific product line to address increasing demand.

High resolution images, combined with improved ergonomics for small components, address the demands of these critical industries. “In this rapidly changing environment, along with the transformation of global markets, it can be difficult for manufacturers to choose a machine and technology that offers capability and  flexibility to see them through the coming years,” explains VICIVISION. “A machine with a wide measuring range is the preferable choice, provided there are no compromises on resolution, accuracy, and the ability to detect the smallest details. That is why we have introduced the X-360 – an ‘all in one’ machine that is the ideal solution.”

VICIVISION explains that the X-360 combines the ability to capture the smallest details while offering a large field of view. The result is a unique solution to the market, which provides manufacturers with a single instrument capable of measuring both small and large components. For instance, micro-mechanical manufacturers can also benefit from a resolution capable of measuring very small radii, bevels, grooves, and threads, while still having a system capable of larger dimensional measurements (300mm x 60mm).

“The unrivalled resolution combined with a large field of view completes VICIVISION’s exclusive ‘full image’ function, which captures the entire profile of the part loaded in the machine with maximum resolution – displaying and saving all the measurement data. Not only is the measurement data saved but so is the entire profile of the part,” comments VICIVISION.

This function enables the technician to save the image of the part so that it can be inspected at a later date. Should additional information be requested, measurements can be made by using the profile of the part without having to get the actual part remeasured.

The innovations don’t stop here, VICIVISION has also focused heavily on the ergonomics of the X-360 to make the measurement of small components easier. The machine offers unobstructed, well-lit front access to facilitate loading and unloading operations, even for the smallest parts. Particular attention was also paid to the reduction of preventative maintenance. For instance, the optics housing is made of stainless steel rather than aluminium to prevent contamination and to facilitate easier cleaning.

The low friction bearings in the upper tailstock also help reduce the rotational slipping effect between the tailstock and the work piece in low force conditions. Across all high precision industries, components being inspected are often delicate – so clamping force must also be very delicate as to not deform the parts being measured.

As an alternative to mounting parts between centres, the machine can also be equipped with a large selection of fixturing solutions for pieces without centring holes. The automated control option also includes I/O communication and pneumatic fixturing systems  (both chuck and tailstock).

“With our long history in industrial automation solutions we can meet the needs of robotic integration, as well as interface with MES and SPC software,” points out VICIVISION. “For the most advanced integrations, our VVLinx communication software is available with closed loop feedback control to machining centres. The data collected by our system is processed and sent back to the lathe (in the form of tool offsets) to keep production in tolerance and to help facilitate tooling changes.”