Hexagon Metrology previews intelligent sensor automation system

SENMATiQ universal sensor interface adds versatility to high-accuracy coordinate measuring machines

Hexagon Metrology has revealed plans to launch a new universal sensor interface system for Leitz ultra high-accuracy coordinate measuring machines (CMMs). The SENMATiQ interface provides intelligent sensor automation, enabling fully-automatic exchange of sensors within part programs so users can overcome even the most complex measurement challenges using a single CMM.

Integrated directly within the CMM quill, SENMATiQ uses a built-in probe identification system to recognise the sensor immediately. The identification system also automatically checks the status of the sensors to ensure smooth changes and fast measurement operations – with no need to recalibrate between different inspection methods. A universal sensor switch and intelligent sensor module mean that SENMATiQ can accept all common sensor types, while the scalable system enables additional sensors to be integrated going forward.

“SENMATiQ is a step-change for users and a quality room standard of the future. It will offer much greater programming flexibility, giving operators quick and easy access to the best sensor for every aspect of the workpiece without adding extra workload,” said Micha Neininger, Sensors Product Manager at Hexagon Metrology. “Customers will be able to get a first glimpse of SENMATiQ on our stand at Control 2015, ahead of its launch later this year.”

Designed as a platform technology, SENMATiQ will be launched with a toolset of several analogue scanning probes and optical sensor technologies with the integration of further tactile, optical and vision sensors to come in future. The first model will accept the HP-S-X5 3D scanning probe, which is capable of carrying stylus extensions of up to 500 mm. SENMATiQ can automatically switch from the motorised indexing probe head HH-AS-2.5 and HP-S-X1 scanning sensor to HP-S-X5 for more flexible positioning and part accessibility, or the PRECITEC LR optical sensor for accurate non-contact measurements on complex surfaces, including matte, reflective, glass or transparent materials.

The SENMATiQ universal sensor interface will be part of the Hexagon Metrology exhibit at Control 2015, which runs from 5 to 8 May 2015 at Landesmesse Stuttgart in Germany. For more information, visit the quality automation experience on Stand 5302 in Hall 5.

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