March 31, 2009 – Sheffield Measurement premiered the Pioneer Plus, a versatile moving bridge CMM with scaleable options including non-contact scanning capabilities and multiple sensor support, all powered by PC-DMIS software. The Pioneer Plus is the ideal solution for the CMM buyer looking for greater flexibility and accuracy in a coordinate measuring machine suited for applications in aerospace, automotive, job shops, and more.The Pioneer Plus fully supports a range of sensors including the ScanShark 4Vix line laser scanning probe, the CMM-V vision sensor, and the LSP-X1 analog scanning probe, as well as multiple types of touch trigger sensors.
Several types of sensors can be combined in a single system for true multisensor capability.The ScanShark 4Vix laser scanning probe enables rapid data collection at 23,000 points per second and is used to quickly and repeatably acquire precision data from geometrically complex areas. The ultra-lightweight scanner includes software filters for various ambient lighting situations and surface finishes – from chrome to glossy black. No spray on coating is needed.With indexable vision measurement, the CMM-V vision sensor allows measurement of parts, both large and small, that require non-contact measurement.
The probe's software controlled, integrated LED illumination enables image optimization for each measurement. The CMM-V can measure hole diameters, precise edge contours, and small features that a touch-trigger stylus can’t easily define. The CMM-V is an ideal probe for measuring soft or easily deformed parts, or for inspecting printed circuit boards and other deposited or printed patterns.
Since the CMM-V operates inside PC-DMIS as an additional supported probe, contact and vision features can be programmed and inspected in a single program.The Pioneer Plus also supports the high accuracy LSP-X1 analog scanning probe head, which supports all the standard probing modes from single point probing and self-centering to continuous high-speed scanning for fast and accurate form and profile measurements.The Pioneer CMM family integrates design innovation is its highly optimized aluminum orifice air bearing system that provides greater reliability and superior stiffness, especially when combined with precision machined dove-tail guide ways.
Pioneer adds the final finishing touches with a sturdy one-piece granite table, Heidenhain high resolution scales, and micro-machined aluminum alloy X beam and Z ram construction. Pioneer Plus supports a wide range of touch trigger probes including Swiss-made TESASTAR probing systems and the TESASTAR-m 2,952 position motorized probe head. Like all Sheffield CMMs, Pioneer Plus comes standard with PC-DMIS, the defacto standard metrology software.
