From the Quality Archives

50 Years of Quality: Optical Comparators
Optical comparators haven’t changed much in 85 years. The reason comparators have not changed much in that time is that the fundamental technology behind an optical comparator is elegantly simple, and it simply works. Since the physics behind optics have not changed, the only possible improvements in comparator technology will revolve around the quality of the optics themselves and the features added to the comparator to make taking measurements easier for the operator. READ MORE

We Can Read It!
Cognex
Cognex offers the most advanced technology available for 1D barcode and 2D Data Matrix code reading. Regardless of size, quality, printing method, or surface the codes are marked on, we can read it! Combined with the best performing hardware on the market, in both handheld and fixed-mount reader formats, Cognex can successfully read codes that other readers cannot. As a result, image-based readers are rapidly replacing laser scanners in a wide range of manufacturing and logistics applications. Cognex patented IDMax® technology provides the most advanced solutions available for reading virtually every type of code, every time, with unsurpassed read rates.

For more information, visit Cognex.

From the Quality Archives

Understanding Optical Inspection
Optical inspection is an important part of the quality process in manufacturing. It can range from quick, subjective inspection by a person to automated quantitative inspection by a machine. It can be performed off-line, where the part is removed from the manufacturing process and brought to the inspection station; on-line, where the part is inspected without removing it from the manufacturing process; or near-line, where the part is inspected near the manufacturing process so it can be returned to the manufacturing process as quickly as possible. READ MORE

High Speed Video Cameras from Olympus
Olympus
With years of experience in high quality digital image processing, the portable i-SPEED product range from Olympus offers high speed video cameras suitable for numerous applications, including: Automotive Crash Testing, Research and Development, Production, Fault Diagnosis, Bottling and Packaging, Pharmaceutical, Manufacturing, Component Testing, Ballistic and Broadcast industries. Some features include multiple camera synchronization, up to 1.000.000 fps recording speed, on-board image measurement, and high speed electronic shuttering. All i-SPEED cameras are compatible with the i-SPEED Software Suite that is designed to mirror the ease-of-use and high specification power of the Olympus camera portfolio.

For more information, visit http://www.olympus-ims.com and http://www.olympus-ims.com/en/hsv-products/.

From the Quality Archives

Case Study: Amazing Optical Measurement
When lives could be endangered by the failure of a part, making that component takes on a new importance. “Our components are what we call life critical,” says Joe Kinsella, president of Pointe Precision Inc. (Plover, WI). “Consequently, we take inspection very seriously.” READ MORE

Video Inspection Systems
S-T Industries, Inc.
The “8700” Series Video Inspection System from S-T Industries is the perfect alternative to the Optical Comparator. High Magnification, precision zoom optics provide a superior image with a 4” x 8” or 4” x 12” travel stage, available with 3 readout systems, cross hair generator or video edge detection, and manual or CNC 2-axis or 3-axis systems for greater flexibility. Combined with over 60 years of manufacturing experience in the U.S. makes S-T Video Inspection Systems your best buy.

For more information, visit www.stindustries.com.