The new software-adjustable variable resolution functionality of the SmartScan VR800 3D scanner from Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division offers ‘zoom’ capabilities for more flexible 3D part inspection.
The VR800 uses four 20 MP cameras in a dual stereo setup for a wider range of measurement volumes. This is uniquely combined with an optical-zoom digital projection unit that makes it possible to measure different volumes (three from each camera pair), as well as vary the resolution within each volume.
Built on a completely reengineered platform, the SmartScan VR800 is said to be the first white light 3D scanner on the market with a motorised zoom lens, which can enable users to adjust data resolution and measurement volume entirely through software settings.
This can allow for more efficient post-scanning alignment processes, including the ability to combine scans of different resolutions within a single project.
Whereas conventional structured light scanners have a fixed optical configuration, Hexagon explains that the combination of dual stereo cameras and optical zoom-enabled projection makes the SmartScan VR800 far more flexible, allowing users to define in exactly which form they collect their data.
Additionally, the system’s integrated controller unit provides fast pre-processing of scan data on the device, ensuring the data heading into the metrology software is cleaner and easier to use. A custom-built carbon fibre frame ensures thermal stability and allows for longer intervals between calibrations.
Three software functions, Smart Resolution, Smart Zoom and Smart Snap, allow the user to customise inspection resolution and measurement volume with no mechanical alterations to the system.
This should allow for data-heavy high-resolution scans to be focused on the feature-rich areas that matter most, while other areas can be covered more efficiently by larger and/or lower resolution scans.
Pirmin Bitzi, general manager Portable Metrology Devices at Hexagon, said, “The need to change optics for different use cases has always been a key challenge when implementing structured light scanning inspection solutions.
“Finding a solution to that industry-wide problem was a key motivator for us – we wanted a way to meet the demands of the many applications where it’s not efficient to scan everything at high resolutions, and neither acceptable to scan everything at lower resolutions. That’s what we’ve strived to achieve with the VR800.”
As with other structured light scanners from Hexagon’s range, the VR800 can be paired with a turntable or turn-tilt unit to enable semi-automated measurement workflows or for integration within robot- or cobot-based fully automated inspection systems.
