LaserXL™

As well as the comprehensive reporting in the Renishaw analysis option, other report options conform to international machine performance checking standards, such as ISO, ASME, VDI, JIS and GB.

The dynamic measurement facility allows the collection of data at rates of 10 Hz to 50 kHz (at 12 preset values) for subsequent review (for live dynamic data review see QuickViewXL™). There's even an integrated FFT package for frequency analysis.

With optional linear error compensation packages, the data obtained from a LaserXL™ calibration can be used to create compensation values for use in a CNC machine's controller.

This can significantly improve a machine's positioning accuracy. Compensation packages are available to interface with many of today's machine controllers.

Dual axis laser measurements

By using two XL-80 systems together with special software (included in LaserXL™ software at no extra cost), dual axis measurement data can be captured and displayed on screen at the same time. (This requires an additional free USB port or a USB hub.)

This software has been specifically designed for use on 'Spar Mill' and large dual beam type CMMs, where one axis is controlled by two drives and/or feedback systems.

Error compensation

Most CNC machine tools have an error map in their controller to compensate for the errors in axis positioning and motion. Over time additional wear can cause errors to increase. With the use of a linear error compensation package, machine performance can be improved with one simple laser test. Data obtained from a calibration cycle is used to calculate compensation values, which can then be fed into a machine's controller. Once the compensation has been completed, a final laser check ensures that a machine's positioning accuracy has been significantly improved.

(Images above show before and after compensation plots of linear positioning error.)

The system will generate the machine move 'G' codes, drive the machine, capture data automatically, and on completion of the test cycle, download via RS232 the new error compensation tables to the machine controller. Alternatively, universal error compensation can be used to produce a table for manual input to almost any machine controller.

The software is used in combination with the LaserXL™ calibration software and now includes a “wizard” and progress indicator to make automatic axis compensation even easier.

Compensation packages are available to interface with many of today's machine controllers* including:

• Fanuc OM and OT
• Fanuc 10 - 12, 15, 16, 18, 20 & 21
• NUM 750, 760, 1060
• Mazak M2, M32, M PLUS
• Siemens 810, 810D, 820, 840, 840C, 840D, 850, 880
• Acramatic 2100
• Cincinnati A850, A850SX, A950

* Note that error compensation software may not work with some “customised” controller specifications.