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Renishaw Inc.'s UCC1 Universal CMM Controller optimizes the CMM/probe interface for maximum part check speed and accuracy. Ideal for both OEM and retrofit applications on a wide variety of CMMs, the UCC1 combines super-fast scanning capability with easy-to-install, easy-to-use operation to boost part inspection efficiency and throughput.

Highly flexible, the controller allows CMMs to operate in three modes – standard touch- trigger, digitizing with analog probes, and full-high-speed scanning. The UCC1's advanced scanning algorithms allow fast, accurate, adaptive part scanning at velocities limited only by the dynamic performance of the CMM. Using the UCC1, speeds in excess of 300 mm/sec (12 in/sec) can be achieved.

Measurements can also be extremely accurate with the UCC1. In tests on a CMM with a Renishaw SP600M scanning probe, a 100mm (4 in) ring gage was scanned at 100mm/sec (4in/sec) with a resulting form deviation of less than 2µm (0.00008 in).

Axis-blending software can move the CMM in three axes at once, allowing true circular motion to accommodate irregular part contours and geometries. The UCC1's software is ideal for running a known scan on a part whose form and features vary from expected, as well as for scanning a part that is only approximately positioned. In this case, the CMM is able to look for the part along an approach path and start the scan when it is found.

Proportional speed control slows the CMM at critical part features to eliminate potential probe or stylus damage. "Lost surface recovery" capability automatically relocates the scanning probe to the last known "good" point, should the probe leave the surface, then resumes scanning. Special filtering capabilities reduce data density on simple surfaces and increase data density on complex surfaces. Filtering also reduces surface noise.

align=left border=0>Front-end software is user-selectable, allowing customization with familiar programs. The UCC1 control software is downloaded each time the system is turned on, so software upgrades can be easily integrated. Expansion card slots provide flexibility for future add-ons.

The UCC1 supports a complete range of CMM probe systems, including conventional touch-trigger; strain gage and laser probes; manual and motorized probe heads; probe and stylus changers; and the latest servo positioning systems. Various other optical and video probes are also supported.

Renishaw Inc., 5277 Trillium Boulevard, Hoffman Estates, IL 60192 USA. Tel: 847-286-9953; Fax: 847-286-9974.

Source: Renishaw Inc.

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