Presse

Measuring accessories for Photogrametry systems

Accessories for optical measuring of hidden or difficult to reach areas.

In order to simulate the exact position of an object without actually touching it, “picture measuring” or Photogrametry is becoming more and more accepted. To do this the object to be measured is first of all surveyed 2 dimensionally from different directions so that all relevant areas of the object are documented. The digital “measuring” pictures are processed and 3D coordinates of relevant geometric points are calculated. But how can hidden or hard to reach areas which are virtually inaccessible be made visible using a camera? Since using pictures from different directions also does not, or only with difficulty, document hidden bores for instance on part edges, Witte Far East Pte. Ltd., Singapore, manufacturer of different work-piece clamping systems, offers useful set of accessories. They complement the product range “Fixinspect”, which until now comprised of red aluminium hemispheres for defining threaded and stamped holes and Fixinspect LT for use with laser trackers. The recently developed Fixinspect PG is a range of specially coded measuring accessories in the shape of cubes, which serve to mark and localize bores, edges and corners. They are mounted on to relevant work-piece positions for the measuring process. The cubes (30x30x30mm) are equipped with differently arranged coded markings/points which allow accurate definition of i.e. hole positions. During subsequent digital picture-taking of the work-piece from different directions, positions of bores and badly accessible area are established using coded cube markings. That means a 3 dimensional picture is calculated by laying 2 dimensional pictures on top of one another. The markings on the cubes thereby serve as reference points to calculate those hidden or blind points. Underneath, the cubes are equipped with exchangeable fixing pins or magnets in different sizes, which are used to mount them to work-pieces due to be measured. With different types of cubes even badly accessible areas can be documented accurately. The range available includes special accessories for 90° inner and outer corners. For Photogrametry the two systems Alufix Color and Fixinspect PG are especially complementary. The frame shown here is built using black anodized Alufix Classic components. The coloring offers a distinct contrast to work-pieces which have to be measured. This considerably simplifies evaluation of the data collected. As for all Alufix Classic fixtures complete disassembly of the fixture and reuse of all standard single components for other fixtures is possible.