Riftek , the measurement specialist represented in the UK by Ixthus Instrumentation, continues to develop bespoke measurement solutions for high-throughput manufacturing processes centred around its well proven range of 2D laser triangulation sensors. The latest custom-engineered project is a fully automated Industrial Ethernet based system that measures internal geometric parameters of the cylindrical steel bands that form an integral part of automotive tyres. The production conveyor-mounted machine combines a two-axis motion system that positions and rotates a specially adapted Riftek RF627 series 2D laser triangulation sensor to create a radial 3D scanning sequence inside the steel belt.
With an inner-diameter range between 110 to 410 mm and axial height of 70 to 305 mm, the RF627 in combination with the probe software measures diameter, roundness, chamber width and angle to an average accuracy of +/- 50 microns with the values returned to a PLC via an integrated PROFINET interface.
