Product Spotlight: OGP C-Vision

Have you been telling yourself that you’re going to get something 21st century to replace that old, obsolete optical comparator? Have you been overwhelmed by a Google search that brings up hundreds of options, few of which look anything like an Optical Comparator?

If so, Cross partner, OGP’s C-Vision line of systems are the right choice. OGP’s foundation is in optical comparators and video measurement technology, so it would make sense that they have an unmatched option for those looking to integrate advanced technology in an environment where the capacity, flexibility, and ease of use of an optical comparator are needed. Here are 5 reasons why the C-Vision is the right choice for those looking to replace optical comparators.

1. Advantages of LFOV Video Technology: Traditional optical comparators are great for parts with moderate to low depth and dimensions that are on the profile of the workpiece. Though other light sources like goosenecks or oblique illuminators (or even on-axis light) can provide some surface imaging for a comparator, it is typically decent at best, material dependent, and can provide inaccuracies for measurements related to features measured with profile light. Even for profile imaging, large workpieces that are difficult to square to the optical path or parts with large rounded surfaces, like shafts, can provide a blurry image that simply will not come into focus. This is called wall effect and can provide serious accuracy compromises in measurement.
   
   C-Vision systems have Large Field of View (LFOV) optical systems that address all of these issues with added benefits. Video technology allows for accurate imaging of surface features and gives the ability to measure features like counterbores that are a challenge for a traditional comparator. Video also allows the entire field of view to be measurable as all pixels are calibrated and usable with OGP’s patented edge detection algorithms. In the time that it takes to get a dozen points on an optical comparator, thousands of points can be taken using the C-Vision.
   
   Thanks to the large depth of field and telecentric optics of the C-Vision, images are always crisp and accurate throughout the entire field of view. This allows for much more reliable measurement of parts that presented wall effect of field of view applications such as the use of overlays.
2. Digital Overlays: Many optical comparators are used as a go/no go tool more than a direct measurement tool. While this can be effective for complex geometries, the process of setting up overlays can be tedious, costly to maintain, and can lend to judgement errors by improper setup. C-Vision systems allow for .DXF files to be brought in and used in lieu of a mylar or glass overlay. Not only does this eliminate the need to buy and maintain overlays, but it also provides an efficiency gain. Once aligned, the digital overlay can move with the stage, eliminating the need to change overlays. With automatic alignment, risk of misjudgment is prevented. As magnification is changed, the overlay scales appropriately.
3. Automated Routines: While the C-Vision is a go to for quick one-off measurements and overlay applications, it is increasingly called upon for automated routines. Operators with minimal training can load their part, initiate the routine, and let the machine take care of the rest. With the benefit of automatic edge detection, the result is both improved efficiency and reproducibility among operators.
4. Don’t fix what isn’t broken!: While video technology and LFOV systems are not new, the successful integration into the body of an optical comparator is limited. Comparators offer advantages over vertical video systems in that they don’t use a glass stage for holding the workpiece. This lends itself to heavier parts or parts that are just simply difficult to hold underneath the optical path. Fixtures from your old optical comparator can be integrated into the new C-Vision and your operators will appreciate a familiar operational feel.
5. Capacity: Along with generous weight capacities, C-Visions offer much larger travels than similarly priced video systems. These capabilities integrated in a heavy capacity, large measuring envelope with a small footprint can also be a great supplement or alternative to CMMs, which struggle with the fine features that comparators are traditionally called upon to tackle.

Interested in learning more? Reach out and a Cross Precision Measurement expert will be happy to set up a demonstration with your parts. Looking to replace a vertical beam comparator? SNAP systems offer the same LFOV optics and advanced measurement capabilities in a vertical orientation.