The ETALON solution – volumetric machine calibration with sub-micron-accuracy

Using the ETALON system, the geometric variations of a machine can be measured quickly and very accurately. The traversing paths of the machine are automatically traced in space by the LaserTRACER and evaluated using a patented process. Extremely high accuracy is achieved as a result of distance measurements in space using a high-resolution interferometer. The procedure is also used to calibrate highly accurate coordinate measuring devices.

The interferometer has a resolution of 1 nm with a maximum measuring length of 15 m. The LaserTRACER-MT with a measuring radius of between 260 and 940 mm can be used as an alternative. The automatically generated compensation data can then be directly transferred to a SINUMERIK CNC. When the option SINUMERIK VCS (Volumetric Compensation System) is installed, the systematic variations detected are compensated over the entire working range of the machine. This usually multiplies the spatial accuracy of the machine.