Pinpoint Laser Systems is introducing a laser-based, four-axis system that it indicated will be useful as well as accurate evaluating and correcting machine alignment. Pinpoint develops measuring equipment used in machine shops and OEMs in the aerospace industry, as well as paper and textile mills, shipbuilding facilities, extrusion plants and electronic assembly facilities. It works with manufacturers to develop specialized alignment systems for robotic applications and medical scanning devices, among other applications.
According to Pinpoint president Mory Creighton, “the new Laser Microgage 4D includes a receiver that will operate over distances of 100 feet and deliver measuring precision of 0.0005 inch and 0.002 degrees.”
The system projects a narrow, focused, red-laser beam that provides a measuring reference line, while the receiver measures the landing point of this line lands on an internal detector. This correspondence is used to determine the position and angular alignment of a machine or sub-assembly relative to this laser reference beam. Among the various benefits of the system is that it will reduce machine shops’ (and other manufacturers’) dependence on contractor service bureaus, which in turn will reduce production downtime and unexpected costs.
Creighton described it as an “ideal (system) for aligning lathes, turning centers, spindles, as well as moving linear slides, rams and pistons, injection molding machinery, and moving mechanical sub-assemblies.
“The Laser Microgage 4D system and receiver puts precise measuring and alignment capability directly into the hands of plant engineers and manufacturing personnel for monitoring and optimizing their own production machinery and equipment,” he added.
