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September 2014

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CMM with a Wide Spectrum of Optical Sensors



The latest generation of the ZEISS CONTURA coordinate measuring machines (CMM) have been introduced to the market. This system is even more precise than its predecessor and offers a large package of optical sensors on top of additional measuring ranges. ZEISS CALYPSO reference software and a highly tuned overall system enable ZEISS CONTURA to perform quality inspections.

The ZEISS CONTURA CMM is designed to be a high-performance measuring technology available to the masses. A reliable measuring system is the result of the interaction of its components: design, sensors, software and service. "With ZEISS CONTURA, customers receive a well-balanced system and thus a guarantee for stable, reproducible precision," said Andrzej Grzesiak from ZEISS Industrial Metrology business group. "Due to its robust design, ZEISS CONTURA can also be used near production. The latest and most powerful scanning sensors from ZEISS are available for the machine."

Sensors are available in the direkt, RDS and aktiv versions. With the ZEISS VAST XXT probe, the direkt model enables scanning. This configuration is suited for small workpieces, for which a small single or star stylus is sufficient. Scanning makes it possible to efficiently and precisely measure the form in addition to the size and location. For parts with different angular positions, the RDS sensor model is the right choice. The RDS articulating probe holder can be freely positioned in 2.5-degree increments, resulting in more than 20,000 possible positions. Due to the RDS-CAA, the data from every single position can be mathematically calculated in just a few minutes. "This drastically improves the utilization level of the machine and results in additional possibilities to immediately measure even complex angular positions," said Grzesiak. Its sensor interface permits the flexible use of contact and optical sensors, including the new ZEISS LineScan sensor. It enables fast optical measurement of features.

The aktiv configuration is recommended when long styli are needed for measurements deep inside a part or for additional demands on precision and speed. The ZEISS VAST XTR gold and VAST XT gold premium probes are available. "This active regulation enables highly accurate measurements with very long, heavy stylus systems. Active scanning is a unique value added by ZEISS," said Grzesiak. "Navigator technology from ZEISS, which enables a tangential approach without a stop and go, as well as circular or helical scanning, results in added productivity," said the spokesperson.

Another new feature is the range of measuring volumes. The ZEISS CONTURA family has eight different sizes starting with a measuring volume of 700 x 700 x 600 mm up to 1,200 x 2,400 x 1,000 mm. From a design standpoint, ZEISS CONTURA offers features such as precise air bearings that are an in-house development. ZEISS AirSaver can also be integrated for additional savings. This technology reduces compressed air consumption by up to 60 percent depending on how it is used.

For more information contact:

Carl Zeiss Industrial Metrology, LLC

6250 Sycamore Lane

Maple Grove, MN 55369

763-744-2400 / 800-327-9735

metrology@zeiss.com

www.zeiss.com/metrology

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