API vProbe Wireless Hidden-Point Smart Probe
| Brand | API |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Product Origin | Imported |
| Model | vProbe |
| Price Range | USD 14,000 – 72,000 (est.) |
| Max Measurement Range | 160 m |
| Measurement Resolution | 0.08 µm |
| Measurement Accuracy | ±(15 µm + 5 µm/m) |
| Rotation Angle | Unlimited |
| Pitch Angle | Unlimited |
| Roll Angle | Unlimited |
Overview
The API vProbe Wireless Hidden-Point Smart Probe is a high-precision, fully wireless coordinate measurement probe engineered for integration with the API Radian Plus laser tracker. It operates on the principle of interferometric and absolute distance measurement (ADM) triangulation, where the laser tracker emits a collimated beam to the retroreflector embedded in the vProbe tip; real-time angular encoders and ADM feedback enable continuous 6-degree-of-freedom (6DoF) spatial localization. Unlike tethered probes or mechanical arms, the vProbe eliminates signal latency, cable drag, and electromagnetic interference—enabling true hidden-point access in complex assemblies, confined cavities, under overhangs, or behind obstructions where line-of-sight to the tracker is intermittently available. Its architecture supports metrology-grade applications in aerospace tooling verification, large-scale composite layup inspection, shipyard structural alignment, and precision jig & fixture certification.
Key Features
- Fully wireless operation via integrated Li-ion battery pack—no data cables, power cords, or RF dongles required
- Ergonomic, palm-fit housing designed for extended handheld use without operator fatigue or grip-induced drift
- Real-time dynamic sampling at up to 100 Hz, with sub-millisecond latency between physical contact and coordinate output
- Unrestricted 360° rotation, ±90° pitch, and full roll capability—enabling multi-axis orientation without repositioning or recalibration
- IP54-rated enclosure for resistance to dust ingress and incidental moisture in industrial shop-floor environments
- Seamless firmware synchronization with Radian Plus tracker via secure Bluetooth 5.0 LE and proprietary API Metrology Protocol (AMP)
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The vProbe is compatible with all API Radian Plus laser trackers equipped with firmware version 4.2 or higher. It supports measurement of metallic, composite, ceramic, and coated surfaces—provided surface reflectivity meets minimum Lambertian reflectance thresholds (>15% at 780 nm). Calibration is traceable to NIST standards through API’s ISO/IEC 17025-accredited metrology laboratory. The system complies with ISO 10360-12 (coordinate measuring machines — acceptance and reverification tests), ASTM E2922-20 (standard guide for laser tracker performance evaluation), and supports audit-ready documentation per FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when used with API’s optional Metrology Software Suite (MSS) configured for electronic signatures and audit trails.
Software & Data Management
The vProbe interfaces natively with API’s Metrology Software Suite (MSS), supporting real-time visualization of probe position, orientation, and deviation vectors in 3D space. MSS provides GD&T evaluation per ASME Y14.5–2018 and ISO 1101:2017, including profile, position, concentricity, and runout analysis. All measurement sessions are timestamped, geotagged with tracker location metadata, and stored in encrypted .mssbin binary format. Raw ADM and encoder data can be exported as ASCII CSV or XML for third-party statistical process control (SPC) platforms. Optional MSS modules include GLP/GMP-compliant report generation, automated calibration certificate archiving, and role-based user access control aligned with ISO 9001:2015 quality management requirements.
Applications
- Aerospace: Wing spar alignment, fuselage station verification, engine mount hole pattern inspection
- Automotive: Body-in-white dimensional validation, battery tray flatness assessment, EV chassis frame assembly verification
- Energy: Wind turbine blade root geometry mapping, nuclear containment vessel distortion monitoring
- Heavy Machinery: Gearbox housing bore concentricity, hydraulic cylinder rod straightness, gantry crane rail parallelism
- Research & Development: Reverse engineering of legacy components, kinematic chain characterization, thermal expansion coefficient validation under controlled environmental chambers
FAQ
What is the typical battery life during continuous high-accuracy measurement?
A fully charged vProbe delivers up to 6 hours of continuous operation at standard ADM sampling rate (50 Hz) and ambient temperature (20 ± 5 °C). Battery health is monitored in real time via MSS and reported in remaining capacity (%) and estimated runtime (min).
Does the vProbe require periodic factory recalibration?
Yes. API recommends annual recalibration against primary standards at an ISO/IEC 17025-accredited facility. Field verification using API’s certified artifact kit (Part #CAL-KIT-VPROBE) is advised before critical measurements.
Can the vProbe be used in outdoor environments?
It is rated IP54 and may be deployed outdoors under sheltered conditions (e.g., hangars, covered docks). Direct exposure to rain, snow, or solar loading exceeding 60 °C is not supported.
Is firmware update capability available over-the-air?
Firmware updates must be performed via USB-C connection to a host PC running MSS; no OTA capability is implemented due to metrological integrity requirements.
How does the vProbe handle temporary loss of tracker line-of-sight?
The probe maintains inertial dead-reckoning for up to 2 seconds using onboard MEMS gyros and accelerometers, enabling seamless resumption once line-of-sight is restored—without requiring manual re-homing or reference point reacquisition.
