High-Accuracy Dimensional Measurement Of Cylindrical Components By An Automated Test Station Based On Confocal Chromatic Sensor

This paper presents the design and characterization of a test station for high-accuracy dimensional measurement of cylindrical components; it is conceived for quality control of turned parts. The system is based on a confocal chromatic sensor and a four degree of freedom scanning system. The station is capable of smart behaviors, which allow to keep measurement uncertainty under control: in particular self-centering of the confocal sensor inside the cylindrical part under inspection, self compensation of temperature effects and self calibration check. Results show how the test station can achieve uncertainty in the range of 10 mu m.