logoclr.gif (5005 bytes)How It Works

   Laser Trackers use a laser distance meter, two precision encoders and sophisticated proprietary software to calculate, store and display the 3-dimensional position of a mirrored target (probe). A beam steering system senses movement of the mirrored target and directs two servo motors to track the target. The Tracker follows the mirrored target over features, updating the position at a rate of 1,000 times per second. The abundance of data collected yields good statistical redundancy, permitting excellent accuracy and repeatability

.Tracker Basics

The SMX/Faro Tracker4000 emits a beam from a laser to a mirrored target called an SMR (Spherically Mounted Retro reflector). The SMR is guided by hand or machine over features to be measured and reflects the beam back along the same path to the tracker. The tracker follows every move, taking 1000 measurements per second. Miniature laser encoders report the horizontal and vertical angles while the laser interferometer

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reads the distance. The computer stores data when instructed by infrared controller, optional voice control, or by striking a key on the computer. Initially you measure points or features to establish a coordinate system. You then tell the system to measure a surface, a line, a radius, as if you were finding features in a CAD model. Repositioning the head anywhere is fast using any 3 or more known features on the part.

Industry Leading Features

  • 1 Person Operation
  • Quick Setup
  • Portable
  • High Accuracy
  • Large Objects
  • 3-D from 1 Station
  • Scan in Real-Time
  • Surface Metrology
  • Inspection and Alignment
  • Tool Building
  • Layout & Fabrication
  • Dynamics
  • Characterize Robots
  • Embed in complex systems
  • Reverse Engineer
  • Interface with CAD
  • Machine Metrology
  • NIST Traceable