Miniature confocal sensor measures parts other sensors cannot

Miniature confocal sensor measures parts other sensors cannot reach

A world first in optical sensor miniaturisation has been launched by Micro-Epsilon.

Renowned as a leader in the field of both optical sensor technology and sensor miniaturisation, Micro-Epsilon’s new range of miniature confocal displacement measurement sensors have a diameter of just 4mm (standard sensor diameters are 27mm) and are therefore ideal for measuring inside confined spaces such as narrow cavities, drilled holes and bores.

As well as axial measurement, the new range of sensors also includes a 90-degree version, which enables the user to measure (radially) the inner surfaces of small components. The sensor head can be rotated inside the bore, enabling the user to measure surface defects inside and to check the concentricity or roundness of a bore or drilled hole.

Other potential applications include the checking of liquid fill levels in medical test tube racks and trays; inspecting drilled holes and recesses; measuring grooves inside pipes; measuring the thickness of any transparent material, including glass and film; mirrored or highly reflective surfaces (which are difficult to measure with laser sensors) can be measured easily and with very high stability.