Optical measurement systems: Contactless measurement and testing technology on the rise
In addition to conventional tactile measuring methods, optical sensors and laser-supported testing and measurement technology are on the rise in industrial manufacturing processes, architecture and design, agricultural technology and many other areas. That’s because they are fast, exact, contactless and highly flexible.
Automation has accelerated today’s production processes to such an extent that their motion is no longer perceivable to the human eye. While tactile processes only allow for measurements of random samples, optical testing and measurement technology is able to detect quality deviations at high speeds directly in the line. This is the key to 100% inspection that forms the basis for closed control loops in Industry 4.0.
Optical measurement systems: Groundbreaking control procedures for the future
However, the use of optical measurement and testing systems is no longer just limited to industrial production processes alone. Outside of industrial manufacturing methods, the speed, flexibility and precision of optical sensors are also used profitably in all kinds of areas of applications:
- In monitoring applications for industrial production, optoelectronic processes have become essential: As opposed to conventional methods, these high-precision measuring processes are capable of lowering costs without compromising quality while enabling ecologically sustainable operations.
- Architecture and design utilize the precision of laser-based measuring techniques to ascertain areas in order to optimize shapes or to achieve maximum precision in reverse engineering (making precise copies of a given object).
- Criminalistics uses laser scanning for measuring and mapping crime scenes to create 3D models, enabling contactless search for evidence through measuring probes and hence avoiding compromised traces or pieces of evidence.
- In forensics, stripe light projection is used as a measuring and testing system enabling precise spatial and dimensional reconstruction as well as digital reproduction of injuries.
- Various natural sciences use optical analytical methods due to their excellent measuring capabilities for fast mapping and precise analysis of surfaces and motions.
Optical sensors and laser-based test and measurement systems have proven to be game changers in this scenario. Due to their superior measuring speed, they enable more efficient manufacturing methods that would not have been possible using conventional methods. This cost and energy saving technique benefits both companies and the environment.
Optical sensors are also integrated in agriculture applications to achieve an ideal ratio of sustainability and efficiency. Farmer Stephan Nunner uses them for fertilizing and tilling fields; in the following video he explains why he sees no alternative to optical processes:
Optical sensor systems and laser-based test and measurement systems have evolved into indispensable instruments in various fields. The latest developments in research and production indicate an ongoing expansion of application areas for optical test and measurement systems.
Product index
The LASER World of PHOTONICS product index is a helpful range of exhibits according to product groups covering, among others, the following areas:
- Optical sensors
- Laser-based test and measurement systems
- Test and counter systems
- Measurement techniques and instruments
Exhibitor directory
The Laser World of Photonics exhibitor list is ideal for looking up specific information on any exhibitor.
At LASER World of PHOTONICS 2023, interested visitors have a rare opportunity to tap into the technical competency of industry and research representatives and to benefit from in-depth information on the latest developments, products and technologies used in optical test and measurement systems. The presence of leading experts and global key players also provides an opportunity to establish contacts for valuable business relationships.