Scanlab has introduced an intelligent monitoring and calibration system for laser processing applications requiring strict dimensional tolerances. The ScanAlign image processing solution augments scan systems via precise calibration of the entire image field. By enabling automatic process alignment and visual quality control of laser processing results, ScanAlign prevents rejects and cuts costs.
Quality control is crucial for laser applications requiring very strict dimensional tolerances and exact positioning of workpieces. With ScanAlign, a camera captures images coaxially via a camera adapter or side-mounted standard objective. Intelligent algorithms then transfer acquired image data as laser coordinates to enable direct correction of laser scan processes.
The system is operated through a clearly structured graphical user interface that requires no programming expertise. Integration into production equipment is facilitated by a provided managed-code library or TCP/IP. The image processing software delivers calculation results usable by laser processing programs such LaserDesk to align scan patterns to the workpiece's actual position and orientation.
ScanAlign uses a high-precision calibration plate to achieve absolute calibration of laser coordinates for dimensionally accurate laser processing, with obtainable precisions that can be smaller than the process laser's spot size. For applications with a 255mm focal length and 1,064nm laser wavelength, absolute precisions under 10µm can typically be achieved. Applications particularly benefitting from this smart image processing solution include micro-welding, via-hole drilling, micro-structuring and de-coating.