IMAGE: Steinbichler Optotechnik optical 3D digitization software can create images of auto parts.
The Zeiss Industrial Metrology business group (Oberkuchen, Germany) is buying a majority interest in Steinbichler Optotechnik (Neubeuern, Germany) as part of its strategy to enter the optical 3D digitization technology sector. Steinbichler Optotechnik provides systems for digitization with optical 3D sensors and surface inspection on car body and sheet metal parts.
Steinbichler Optotechnik has a global workforce of more than 200 and a broad spectrum of competencies in photogrammetry and laser scanning, including products of the COMET and T-Scan series with an extensive installed base. In addition to these mobile systems, the ABIS surface inspection systems and the COMET sensors are also installed with robots. In addition, the company is a supplier of interferometric tire inspection systems, which use shearography for automotive and aerospace tire inspection.
For car body metrology, Zeiss Industrial Metrology recently released the Zeiss Eagle Eye II triangulation laser scanner for its horizontal measuring machines of the PRO series. Zeiss and Steinbichler have collaborated for years on numerous projects.
Dr. Rainer Ohnheiser, Head of the Industrial Metrology business group, says, "This will further strengthen the Zeiss Industrial Metrology business group in the field of optical measuring technology, promote digitization and position it as a solutions provider in the area of quality processes in car body production. In the future, Zeiss will cover the entire process from the CAD data model and digitization right up to car body shell inspection." Dr. Marcus Steinbichler, Managing Partner of Steinbichler Optotechnik, adds: "The competencies and positioning of the two companies are the perfect match. Access to the Zeiss global distribution and service organization will enable us to reach even more customers and address new sectors."
The transaction is expected to be finalized by mid-summer. Steinbichler's headquarters will remain in Neubeuern, and Dr. Steinbichler will head the new company as its Managing Director over the long term.
Source: Steinbichler Optotechnik
IMAGE: Steinbichler Optotechnik provides smart sensors for 3D digitization, including the COMET 6 16M a strip light projection sensors.