Video Measuring Machine

What is the Video Measuring Machine?

A non-contact 2D or 2.5D measuring machine that uses a camera, zoom lens and motorized stage to measure dimensions automatically from programmed routines. It is the right choice for repeatable measurement of small, thin or soft parts in volume.

Overview

A video measuring machine images the part through a zoom lens onto a CCD or CMOS camera, with programmable LED illumination from contour, surface and ring lights. Software detects edges using pixel analysis and calculates points, lines, circles, angles and distances from the calibrated stage position. Motorized XYZ stages provide travel from 200 by 100 mm to 500 by 400 mm, with scale resolution of 0.5 micrometer and accuracy of about (2.5 + L/200) micrometers. Programs can be saved and run automatically for repeat batches, which removes operator influence. Optional laser or touch probes add height measurement. Compared with a profile projector, it offers automation, digital reporting and CAD comparison, but costs more and needs trained programmers for complex routines.

How does it work?

Inspection instruments convert a physical feature of a part into a number or an image that can be compared with a tolerance. Optical instruments magnify and project the silhouette or surface onto a screen or camera and measure distances using calibrated scales or pixel calibration. Eddy current and magnetic induction gauges measure the change in a probe's field caused by a coating over metal. Ultrasonic flaw detectors send high-frequency sound into a material and display echoes from boundaries and discontinuities, locating defects by time of flight. Stylus profilometers drag a fine diamond tip across a surface to record vertical displacement as roughness. Accuracy depends on calibration with traceable standards such as gauge blocks, step standards and foil references, on temperature stability and on operator technique.

What are the key features?

• Automatic edge detection and programmed routines remove operator judgement from repeat measurements.
• Programmable multi-zone LED illumination adapts to reflective, translucent and dark parts.
• Motorized zoom lens and stage enable fast navigation and batch measuring.
• CAD overlay and DXF comparison show deviation from nominal geometry directly.
• SPC statistics and customizable report templates support quality documentation.
• Optional laser or touch probe adds height and flatness measurement.

What are the technical specifications?

A typical video measuring machine configuration offers stage travel (X × Y × Z) of 300 × 200 × 200 mm, scale resolution of 0.5 μm, length accuracy of (2.5 + L/200) μm, repeatability of ≤2 μm, optical magnification of 0.7x–4.5x zoom (30–225x on screen) and camera of 2 MP color CMOS. Values are indicative of the product class; the exact figures for each configuration are confirmed on the quotation and the calibration documents supplied with the instrument.

Which applications is it used for?

The Video Measuring Machine is used in stamped and machined small parts, electronic components and PCBs, plastic injection molded parts, medical device features and sheet metal batch inspection. Across the wider Inspection Instruments class, laboratories also deploy it for dimensional inspection of machined parts, paint and plating thickness verification and weld and casting flaw detection.

Which standards and certifications apply?

Relevant standards and methods include ISO 2178, ISO 2808, ISO 4287, ISO 9712, ASTM E114, ISO 10360-1 and ASTM D7091. Certification candidates for this model are CE, ISO 9001 manufacturing and GB/T 19001; each is to be confirmed for the specific configuration before shipment, and certificates are supplied only where they have been issued.

Keep inspection instruments in a temperature-controlled area when tolerances are tight, since thermal expansion affects dimensional results. Calibrate with traceable reference standards appropriate to each instrument, such as gauge blocks, coating foils, calibration blocks for ultrasonic testing and roughness specimens. Verify zero and span before each shift. Protect optics, probes and styli from damage, and store them in cases. Operators of ultrasonic equipment should be qualified to recognized levels such as ISO 9712. Document inspection procedures, acceptance criteria and measurement uncertainty, and keep records for customer audits. Schedule periodic recalibration at intervals defined in the quality system.

How do I select the right Video Measuring Machine?

Choose a video measuring machine for repetitive measurement of small two-dimensional features with programs and reports. Choose a coordinate measuring machine when full 3D features and tight height tolerances dominate. In an RFQ specify stage travel, accuracy per ISO 10360-7, required magnification, illumination, part weight, probe options and report format.

How does it compare with other Inspection Instruments variants?

Choose by the feature to be verified. Use a profile projector or video measuring machine for two-dimensional outlines, holes and small parts. Use a coating thickness gauge for paint, plating or anodizing, selecting magnetic induction for steel substrates and eddy current for non-ferrous metals. Use an ultrasonic flaw detector for internal defects in welds, castings and forgings. Use a roughness tester when surface finish is specified in Ra or Rz. Compare measuring range, resolution, accuracy relative to tolerance, probe or objective options, and software for programs and reports. A good rule is that the instrument accuracy should be one tenth of the tolerance. Consider operator skill, since ultrasonic and manual optical methods depend strongly on technique and training.