Keyence IM-series Measurement System
Rubber parts are notoriously difficult to measure, as they are soft, and can deform when they are measured with a contact type measurement device such as a caliper, or a CMM. While contact devices are still used, Stern Rubber also uses multiple non-contact measurement devices in their Quality Assurance lab. One of the latest pieces of equipment is a Keyence IM-series Image Dimension Measuring System.
The Keyence IM series devices provide overwhelming measurement speed and high measurement accuracy. The Keyence is able to look at the part that is on the measurement stage, and search for a previously created measurement program, and adjust for location and orientation. There is no need for positioning, which saves time. It is also able to measure all the dimensions at the same time, which saves additional time. And, not only can it measure all the measurements at the same time, it can do all the measurements on multiple parts at the same time. It highlights dimensions that are out of tolerance, so that it can be used to sort parts for dimensional issues.
The Keyence’s specifically designed lens provides a super wide field of view, and has auto focus capabilities, which ensures the part is always in focus, regardless of height differences. The telecentric lens maintains a constant image size regardless of height differences, which allows accurate measurement of parts with uneven surfaces.
A line, or a circle, is recognized using 100 or more parts. On a manual CMM, or an optical comparator, this is often done with only 6 or 8 measurements, so the Keyence is much more accurate. And, because it is automatic, it eliminates operator error. The Keyence also eliminates the influence of burrs or chips by ignoring points at abnormal locations.
The Keyence is very easy to use, so operators do not need a lot of training. For the person doing measuring parts, it is as simple as putting the parts on the stage, and pushing one button. To set up features to be measured, the desired tool is chosen from the menu, and the measurement points are roughly specified on the screen with the mouse. The Keyence does the rest.
To learn more about how this is used, please click here to read a case study about how Leatherman is using a Keyence IM, or here about Fastener Depot. Also, feel free to contact Stern Rubber, and we will be happy to show you the Keyence, along with the other measurement instruments, and how they can be used to measure your parts.