MAT Micro-Adjustment Telescope
| Origin | Imported |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Distributor |
| Model | MAT |
| Price | Upon Request |
| Measurement Range | ±1.2 mm |
| Optical Magnification | 34× |
| Accuracy | 5 µm at 3 m, 50 µm at 30 m |
| Maximum Effective Measurement Distance | 30 m (extendable) |
| Linear Measurement Accuracy | ±20 µm |
Overview
The MAT Micro-Adjustment Telescope is a high-precision optical alignment instrument engineered for deterministic collimation and deviation measurement in large-scale industrial metrology applications. Based on the principle of autocollimation and reticle-based visual targeting, the system projects a collimated beam through a high-stability achromatic objective lens assembly, enabling precise angular and lateral displacement assessment via real-time observation of a calibrated target graticule. Unlike laser alignment tools subject to thermal drift or beam divergence over distance, this telescope delivers consistent geometric reference fidelity through passive optical path stability—making it especially suitable for environments where electromagnetic interference, vibration, or ambient lighting may compromise electronic sensor performance. Its core function is to establish and verify straight-line references across extended baselines, supporting traceable alignment verification in structural, mechanical, and aerospace assembly workflows.
Key Features
- Robust monolithic optical housing with temperature-compensated lens mounts, minimizing focus shift across operational ambient ranges (10–35 °C).
- 34× magnification objective with parfocal eyepiece design, allowing rapid switching between coarse acquisition and fine micrometer-based readout without refocusing.
- Integrated precision micrometer drum with vernier scale, calibrated to resolve deviations down to 5 µm at 3 m baseline—traceable to NIST-traceable interferometric standards.
- Modular mounting interface compatible with standard ISO 15387 kinematic base plates and adjustable tripod adapters for repeatable repositioning.
- No external power requirement—fully self-contained optical operation ensures reliability in field deployments and cleanroom environments where EMI or battery constraints apply.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The MAT telescope is designed for use with reflective or retroreflective targets—including precision-ground steel or ceramic fiducial plates, crosshair targets, and custom-machined alignment jigs—commonly deployed in shipyard dry docks, aircraft final assembly bays, and heavy machine tool calibration cells. It complies with fundamental requirements of ISO 10360-1 (Geometrical Product Specifications – Acceptance and Reverification Tests for Coordinate Measuring Machines) regarding optical referencing methodology, and supports audit-ready documentation per ASME B89.1.10M (Methods for Calibration of Alignment Telescopes). While not a certified measuring instrument under EU MID Directive, its measurement uncertainty budget adheres to GUM (JCGM 100:2008) guidelines when used within specified environmental and procedural constraints.
Software & Data Management
The MAT operates as a standalone optical instrument without embedded firmware or digital connectivity. However, its measurement outputs are fully compatible with industry-standard metrology data workflows: micrometer readings can be manually logged into SPC-compliant spreadsheets or imported into statistical process control platforms (e.g., Minitab, Q-DAS) via CSV templates. For organizations requiring full GLP/GMP traceability, optional third-party digital camera adapters (e.g., 5 MP USB3.0 CCD modules with calibration-certified lenses) enable image capture of reticle-target superimposition. Such images support time-stamped archival, multi-user review, and integration with document management systems compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with validated annotation software.
Applications
- Aircraft wing spar and fuselage jig alignment verification during subassembly integration.
- Ship propulsion shaft line bearing bore coaxiality assessment using multiple station setups across 50+ meter hull lengths.
- Horizontal and vertical alignment of CNC gantry mills and jig borers prior to volumetric compensation mapping.
- Verification of column verticality and rail parallelism in large coordinate measuring machine (CMM) foundations.
- Calibration of laser tracker reference points by establishing independent optical baselines for cross-validation.
FAQ
What is the maximum practical working distance for reliable measurement?
Under controlled environmental conditions (stable temperature, minimal air turbulence, and adequate target illumination), the MAT achieves repeatable ±50 µm lateral deviation resolution up to 30 m. Beyond 30 m, accuracy degrades linearly due to atmospheric refraction and target definition limits; extension beyond this range requires empirical validation per ISO 10725 sampling plans.
Can the MAT be used for angular measurements?
Yes—by combining micrometer displacement readings with known target distance, angular deviation (in arcseconds) is calculated per the small-angle approximation (θ ≈ Δx / L × 206265). The instrument’s 34× magnification enables resolution of <0.5 arcsec changes at 3 m.
Is calibration certification included with purchase?
Each unit ships with a factory calibration report (including collimation error, reticle orthogonality, and micrometer linearity data), traceable to national metrology institutes. On-site recalibration services are available through authorized service centers accredited to ISO/IEC 17025.
Does the MAT require periodic optical recalibration?
Annual verification is recommended per ISO 9001 clause 7.1.5.2 for monitoring and measuring resources. No internal adjustment is user-accessible; all optical realignment must be performed by certified technicians using interferometric collimators and autocollimation benches.
