New white light interferometers

In development for more than 10 years, the new interferoMETER range from Micro-Epsilon comprises a controller, a sensor and a fibre optic cable. Unlike traditional laser interferometers that use a single wavelength and only perform relative measurements, the interferoMETER range from Micro-Epsilon operates with a broadband super-luminescent diode (SLED) and can make absolute measurements, well suited for step height and surface measurements. The use of a longer wavelength, 840nm, allows for a greater overall measurement range. In addition, being in the near-infrared part of the spectrum opens up the possibility to measure thicknesses of anti-reflective glass, plastics, reflective metals and coated objects. Another key benefit is the increased standoff and workable range for thickness measurement tasks which are independent of the target position within the working range of the sensor.

The sensors are designed for industrial measurement tasks and are equipped with robust metal housings and flexible cables. Connection into production lines or control cabinets is said to be easy with numerous analogue and digital interfaces such as Ethernet and EtherCAT provided. System configuration is carried out via a user-friendly web interface that speeds up commissioning and parameter set up. Stable measurement results are achieved due to active temperature compensation and passive cooling. Measuring rates are up to 6kHz, enabling high-speed measurements in fast-moving production environments.

Depending on the application, three different versions of the interferoMETER are available: the IMS5400-DS for high-precision absolute distance measurements in industrial environments; the IMS5400-TH for high-accuracy thickness measurements; and the IMS5600-DS with vacuum-compatible design for absolute distance measurements to picometre resolution in clean rooms and ultra-high vacuums.

The high-accuracy IMS5400-TH is used to measure the thickness of thin, transparent materials. Measurements are carried out with a single sensor (one-sided) regardless of the distance to the measuring object. Nanometre-accurate measurements are possible even where there are distance fluctuations, vibrating or moving objects. Due to its near-infrared light source, thickness measurements of anti-reflective glass, as well as plastics, reflective metals and coated objects can also be performed. The system is particularly suitable for measurements in flat glass production lines or plastic film.

The IMS5600-DS is designed for absolute distance measurements in clean rooms and vacuums, including ultra-high vacuums (UHV). Special tuning of the controller and intelligent evaluation algorithms (which also evaluate the frequency) enable sub-nanometre resolution (

The IMS5400-DS is used for industrial distance measurements. Compared with other absolute optical measuring systems, the system offers an unmatched combination of accuracy, measuring range and base/offset distance. The IMS5400-DS provides absolute measured values and can reliably detect steps and edges without any signal loss. Even when measuring on moving objects, the height differences of heels, steps and recesses are measured reliably. The compact, robust sensors enable integration into confined, narrow spaces. A small light spot size of 10 microns allows detection of the smallest objects and details such as structures on semiconductors or miniature electronic components.

For further information about the new interferoMETER range from Micro-Epsilon please visit www.micro-epsilon.co.uk.