FARO Laser Tracker Rental Service – Precision 3D Coordinate Measurement System

Overview

The FARO Laser Tracker Rental Service provides on-demand access to a high-accuracy, large-volume 3D coordinate measurement system engineered for industrial metrology applications. Based on the principle of interferometric and absolute distance measurement (ADM) combined with high-resolution angular encoders, the FARO laser tracker dynamically tracks a retroreflective target (spherically mounted retroreflector, SMR) in real time while continuously computing its 3D Cartesian coordinates (X, Y, Z) relative to the tracker’s origin. This enables traceable, sub-millimeter-level spatial metrology across volumes exceeding 60 meters in diameter—ideal for aircraft assembly, heavy machinery alignment, robotic cell calibration, and large-scale production line verification. Unlike fixed CMMs or portable arms, the laser tracker maintains metrological integrity over extended ranges without cumulative error, making it indispensable for geometric tolerance analysis (GD&T), best-fit alignment, and as-built vs. as-designed validation under ISO 10360 and ASME B89.4.19 compliance frameworks.

Key Features

• Real-time dynamic tracking of SMR targets at speeds up to 2 m/s with angular resolution < 1 arcsecond and distance resolution ≤ 1 µm (interferometric mode)
• Hybrid ADM/IFM distance measurement engine ensuring NIST-traceable accuracy across full working volume (typical volumetric uncertainty: ±(15 + 6L) µm, where L is distance in meters)
• Integrated thermal compensation using dual-point temperature sensors and barometric pressure input for environmental drift correction
• Ruggedized, IP54-rated tracker head designed for shop-floor deployment—no clean-room requirements
• Plug-and-play compatibility with FARO SCENE, CAM2, or Metrology Software Suite (e.g., SpatialAnalyzer, PolyWorks) for automated reporting and GD&T evaluation
• Full-service rental package includes certified SMRs, tripod with precision leveling base, controller unit, ruggedized laptop preloaded with licensed software, and on-site technician support (optional add-on)

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The system accommodates reflective targets (SMRs), active trackers (e.g., FARO Vantage E), and passive artifacts such as gauge blocks, alignment spheres, and custom fiducial fixtures. It supports measurement of metallic, composite, and painted surfaces typical in aerospace fuselage sections, wind turbine nacelles, and railcar bogies. All delivered measurement data comply with ISO/IEC 17025:2017 documentation standards when used with accredited calibration certificates (NIST-traceable). The service adheres to AS9100D and IATF 16949 audit requirements for measurement process control, including documented uncertainty budgets, repeatability studies (per ISO 5725), and operator qualification records. For regulated environments (e.g., FDA-regulated medical device manufacturing), optional 21 CFR Part 11-compliant audit trails and electronic signature workflows are available upon request.

Software & Data Management

Rentals include fully licensed, version-controlled metrology software with no time-limited trials. Data export supports industry-standard formats: ASCII (.txt), CSV, STEP AP214, IGES, and native .pts/.ptx point clouds. Automated report generation includes deviation heatmaps, cross-sectional profiles, best-fit alignments (RANSAC or least-squares), and statistical process control (SPC) charts compliant with MSA AIAG guidelines. Raw measurement logs retain timestamped encoder readings, environmental metadata (temperature, humidity, pressure), and tracker status flags—enabling full forensic traceability during GLP/GMP audits. Cloud-based backup and encrypted local storage options ensure data sovereignty and integrity throughout the rental period.

Applications

• Aircraft wing-to-fuselage alignment and tooling verification per Boeing D6-17247 and Airbus AIPS-02-01-001
• Robotic arm kinematic calibration—identification and compensation of DH parameter errors to improve absolute positioning accuracy from ±2 mm to ≤ ±0.3 mm
• Large-scale production line re-commissioning after transportation-induced misalignment (e.g., automotive battery module assembly lines)
• Validation of jig & fixture geometry against CAD master models using iterative closest point (ICP) registration
• As-built survey of offshore platform modules prior to marine installation
• Thermal deformation monitoring of machine tools during machining cycles via time-series SMR tracking

FAQ

What is included in the standard rental package?

A calibrated FARO laser tracker (Vantage or X series), tripod with leveling base, controller unit, SMR set (3× Ø0.5″, 1× Ø1.0″), preconfigured laptop with licensed metrology software, transport case, and comprehensive user documentation.
Is on-site setup and training provided?

Basic operational briefing is included; certified FARO-trained metrologists are available for on-site commissioning and measurement protocol development at additional cost.
Can measurements be performed outdoors?

Yes—under stable atmospheric conditions (wind < 15 km/h, no precipitation, temperature gradient < 2°C/h); optional weather station integration is recommended for extended outdoor campaigns.
How is measurement traceability ensured?

Each tracker carries a valid NIST-traceable calibration certificate issued within 12 months; uncertainty budgets and verification reports are supplied with every job deliverable.
Are software updates and technical support covered during rental?

Yes—rental includes access to the latest stable software release and remote technical assistance via FARO-certified support engineers during business hours (UTC+0 to UTC+8).