The Wenzel WS-2030 laser scanning system digitizes the 3D shape of
plastic and metal parts having complex geometries and free-form surfaces. Photo
courtesy Laser Design Inc.
Located in Grenoble, France-the heart of the Alps-Schneider Electric’s headquarters is known as the birthplace of hydroelectric power. Schneider also was the first company to harness the power commercially. Nonetheless, the company continually seeks ways to increase plant productivity.
Recently, Schneider installed an automated laser scanning system to significantly improve their first article inspection process. The Wenzel WS-2030, developed by Laser Design Inc., offers high-speed, high-accuracy laser scanning that digitizes the 3D shape of plastic and metal parts having complex geometries and free-form surfaces.
A completely automated turnkey system, the WS-2030 has dramatically reduced inspection time and labor costs. It can also be used for reverse engineering applications. The laser scanning technology is integrated with Geomagic software.
“Schneider has set the standard for the highest quality components in power control circuitry products worldwide,” says C. Martin Schuster, president of Laser Design. “People’s lives depend on them and it is of utmost importance that the quality assurance process at all Schneider plants worldwide guarantee that the parts being made are true to the design intent. Installation of several scanners at their production facilities on several continents is testament to their ability to operate 24/7 within a Six Sigma environment.”
At the heart of the WS-2030 system is a noncontact 3D Surveyor Laser Probe (SLP-250) that captures up to 144,000 points per second, making it ideal for complex profile contour scanning. The probe line features digital (ASCII) coordinate output, a visible beam, a Class II rating for safe and easy-to-see operations and a long standoff to prevent crashes during part scanning.
It also offers a large measurement range, enhanced specularity performance and automatic adjustments for surface color and finish. Dual CMOS receptors featuring simultaneous scanning assist with steep sidewall and recessed geometry capture.
The other key component is an air-bearing Wenzel coordinate measuring machine base. Full CMM capability is optional by adding a touch probe and OpenDMIS CMM software.
For further information on 3D laser scanning systems, call 952-252-3412 or visitwww.laserdesign.com.
