Hexagon Metrology OPTIV CLASSIC Vision Measuring Machine

Overview

The Hexagon Metrology OPTIV CLASSIC Vision Measuring Machine is an entry-level yet highly capable coordinate measuring system engineered for precision 2D and 3D non-contact dimensional metrology in quality control laboratories and production environments. It operates on the principle of high-resolution optical imaging combined with sub-pixel edge detection algorithms, enabling traceable measurement of geometric features—including length, diameter, angle, position, form, and profile—on machined parts, sheet metal components, plastic injection-molded parts, PCBs, and precision stamped assemblies. Designed around a rigid granite base and bridge structure, the OPTIV CLASSIC delivers stable thermal and mechanical performance across extended measurement volumes. Its modular architecture supports scalable configurations—from compact 300×200×200 mm work envelopes up to large-format 1200×1500×250 mm systems—while maintaining linearity compliance per ISO 10360-7 and VDI/VDE 2617 Part 9 standards. The machine’s 30% speed improvement over legacy vision platforms stems from optimized motion control firmware, low-inertia linear stages, and real-time image processing acceleration.

Key Features

• Rigid granite base and cross-beam structure ensures long-term stability and minimal thermal drift under ambient workshop conditions.
• High-resolution industrial color CCD camera with programmable gain and exposure control for optimal contrast on reflective, matte, or translucent surfaces.
• 6-ring, 8-zone LED ring light with independent digital intensity control per segment—enabling adaptive illumination for edge enhancement, shadow minimization, and feature-specific contrast tuning.
• Imported open-loop optical grating encoder system with ≤0.5 µm interpolation resolution, delivering repeatable positioning accuracy across full travel ranges.
• PC-DMIS Vision metrology software platform with intuitive CAD-based alignment, automatic feature recognition, and statistical process control (SPC) reporting tools.
• Modular probe integration: optional confocal white-light sensor for surface texture and step-height analysis; optional touch-trigger probe for hybrid measurement of recessed or occluded features.
• Comprehensive environmental compensation suite—including temperature, air pressure, and humidity inputs—for real-time correction of refractive index effects in air-path measurements.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The OPTIV CLASSIC accommodates a broad range of sample geometries and materials—including metals, ceramics, polymers, composites, and thin-film substrates—without requiring specialized fixturing for most flat or moderately contoured parts. Parts up to 40 kg can be securely mounted on the precision-ground granite table using standard kinematic or vacuum chucks. All configurations comply with ISO 9001:2015 and ISO/IEC 17025:2017 requirements for accredited calibration laboratories. Measurement uncertainty budgets are documented per ISO/IEC Guide 98-3 (GUM), and software validation reports support GLP/GMP-regulated industries. The system meets electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements per EN 61326-1 and safety standards per EN 61000-6-2 and EN 61000-6-4.

Software & Data Management

PC-DMIS Vision serves as the native metrology software environment, supporting full GD&T evaluation per ASME Y14.5 and ISO 1101. It provides audit-trail functionality compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 for electronic records and signatures, including user authentication, change logging, and report version control. Measurement programs can be created via teach-mode operation or automated through CAD model import (STEP, IGES, X_T). Raw image data, measurement results, and annotated reports are stored in standardized XML and PDF formats, compatible with enterprise MES and QMS platforms such as Siemens Teamcenter, PTC Windchill, and ETQ Reliance. Batch reporting includes Cp/Cpk indices, trend charts, and deviation heatmaps aligned to nominal CAD geometry.

Applications

• Dimensional verification of CNC-machined aerospace brackets and turbine blades.
• Form and position analysis of automotive stampings—including hole pattern location, flange flatness, and bend angle tolerance checks.
• PCB component placement validation and solder paste inspection pre-reflow.
• Medical device component metrology—e.g., catheter hub dimensions, syringe barrel concentricity, and microfluidic channel width assessment.
• Tooling and mold validation for injection molding processes, including cavity symmetry and gate location repeatability.
• Reverse engineering of legacy parts where CAD data is unavailable, leveraging point-cloud generation and best-fit surface reconstruction.

FAQ

What is the maximum part height the OPTIV CLASSIC can accommodate?
The Z-axis travel is fixed at 200 mm for models up to 500×600 mm, and 250 mm for all larger configurations (600×800 mm and above), allowing vertical clearance for parts with moderate relief or stacked assemblies.
Is PC-DMIS Vision included with the base system?
Yes—PC-DMIS Vision is supplied as standard software with full licensing for measurement programming, reporting, and SPC analysis. Optional modules include GD&T Advanced, AutoRun for unattended operation, and CAD Compare for first-article inspection.
Can the system perform measurements traceable to NIST standards?
Yes—Hexagon provides factory calibration certificates traceable to national metrology institutes (NMI), and optional on-site recalibration services are available with ISO/IEC 17025-accredited calibration providers.
Does the OPTIV CLASSIC support automated part loading?
While not integrated with robotic loaders out-of-the-box, the machine’s Ethernet/IP and OPC UA interfaces enable seamless integration into automated inspection cells when paired with third-party material handling systems.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for long-term accuracy retention?
Annual preventive maintenance is recommended, including granite surface flatness verification, optical path cleaning, encoder calibration check, and software patch updates—documented in accordance with ISO 10012:2003 guidelines for measurement management systems.