Measuring up to the challenge

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 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.

The mechanical hardware, including the mounting frame and main housing with interfacing connectors for 24V DC power and fieldbus, forms part of the Riftek supplied system. As well as the probe software, an RS422-to-PROFINET IO module interfaces the 2D laser sensor to the PLC. For this set-up, the customer preferred to use a Siemens S7-1200 PLC although other manufacturer’s PLCs of choice could be used.

GSD files and a comprehensive installation manual are also part of the supply. The probe software and the IO module combine to provide a data packet, allowing the graphical display of the component being measured and a file output for use in further analysis software. The system supplied is said to be fully adaptable for vertical or horizontal orientation to suit a customer’s project demands.