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Methods Machine Tools offers the extended-travel 700 series VisionGauge digital comparator from VisionX. The machine features a 24" × 24" × 24" envelope, in addition to tilt and rotary axes based in a trunnion configuration (available in vertical and horizontal), which can accommodate part weights ranging to 100 lbs. According to the company, the extended-travel configuration is well-suited for large and heavy parts such as those found in the industrial gas turbine industry.

The original 700 Series VisionGauge has a 12" × 12" × 12" envelope in addition to a tilt and rotary stage assembly that is mounted in a cantilever configuration. The company says this is designed for inspecting smaller, lightweight parts such as blades, vanes and heat shields in the aerospace industry.

An included optical system is designed for an extended depth of field, providing complete clarity and focus regardless of a part’s geometry, as well as a long working distance that provides flexibility. The system’s adaptive feature-detection software tools are designed to locate holes and slots on different surfaces with diverse reflectivity at various viewing angles, especially for burrs and splatter.

The company says the comparators are a fully-digital drop-in replacement for traditional optical comparators and work directly with a part's CAD data without requiring any overlays or templates. The comparators can be setup to automatically collect complete electronic documentation and device history for SPC and quality compliance purposes. They also enable users to automatically compare a part to its CAD data in real-time. Systems are Windows-based and delivered in a rolling cart for shopfloor mobility.