INSTRUMENTATION

INSTRUMENTATION

The HoloMapper from ERIM International (Ann Arbor, MI) measures large areas of precision-machined parts with high accuracy. Introduced in September 1997, the instrument uses novel holographic imaging and data processing and manipulation techniques to create three-dimensional data sets. HoloMapper has a 49-in.2 field of view to image parts; it measures the surface height at more than one million x, y sample points, and in the ¥direction with submicron accuracy over a few inches of depth. The entire 3-D inspection process takes 3 min from placing the object in the sensor to display of image. With no moving parts, its simple design ensures it is rugged for industrial use. Other measuring systems (coordinate measurement machines, parallax imagers, scanning lasers, and white-light interferometers) force trade-offs between resolution, time, and area (or volume). In addition to operating in laboratories and clean rooms, the HoloMapper can make precision measurements on the factory floor.