The laser tracking device is based on the same principles of the FaroArm. It is another type of portable inspection device that is mainly used for shop floor and hard to reach places. What is different with the laser tracker is that it can inspect components or tooling without the aid of contact triggering. Another feature which is impressive of the laser tracker, unlike the Faro Arm is that the reaching range for a laser tracker can be up to 230 ft.
To use the laser tracker device, the operator places the laser tracking device on a tripod, which usually is part of the kit. Once set up, measurements can be taken on the component. The laser tracker projects a beam to the reflector, and the same beam is bounced back to the base unit, which then calculates and registers the position of each inspection feature. If ever the beam or the target is interrupted, the laser tracker device will still omit the beam until the inspection feature is evaluated and registered correctly.
The benefits to this type of inspection device are very similar to the FaroArm, as it is a portable inspection system that can be used both within a controlled metrology facility and on the production shop floor.
These are some of the typical measurement devices used within the automotive industry, however, other systems such as Perceptron, 3D Photogrammy and even digital go-no-go checking fixtures are being used for similar purposes.
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