ZEISS has introduced TALOS, a metrology robot for automated inspection of medium-sized and large components. The system combines robotic positioning with an optical sensor. It measures surfaces and individual features. TALOS is intended for high-volume inspection. It can also reach areas that are difficult to access with conventional line-of-sight measurement systems.
The TALOS system comprises the TALOS MR metrology robot and the compact TALOS AX blue-light sensor. A metrology-grade TALOS RT rotation table and the TALOS Safeguard safety concept complete the system. ZEISS specifies measurement uncertainty below 100 µm across a reach of 3.30 metres. The robot positions its sensor without external tracking systems or reference markers. Therefore, components can be measured without these additional positioning aids. The system is designed for use near production or in dedicated measurement rooms. Target applications include automotive, aerospace and commercial vehicle manufacturing. ZEISS lists car bodies, hang-on parts, giga-casting parts, aerostructures, jet engines, truck cabins and weld seams among the components and features that can be inspected.
One sensor for surface and feature measurement
The TALOS AX sensor addresses the challenge of combining fast surface measurement with accurate measurement of individual features. It uses two 24-megapixel cameras. The cameras capture images at 100 Hz, or up to 200 Hz in fast scan mode. A 500 mm wide measurement volume supports the acquisition of large surfaces for geometry analysis and digital twins.
Four multidirectional feature flashes also enable the measurement of details such as holes, edges, bolts and threads. As a result, surface and feature measurement are combined in a single automated workflow. The resulting high-resolution data can be used to evaluate component quality and deviations. ZEISS also provides virtual tools for assessing functional dimensions, gap sizes and flushness. These tools can also be used in automotive assembly.
Offline planning and production use
Measurement tasks can be prepared offline with a CAD model. ZEISS INSPECT then automatically calculates the required measurement positions and robot paths. This reduces the work involved in planning a new task. The software also supports analysis and reporting. Results can be integrated into existing processes. The robot and system are designed to withstand typical environmental influences. These include temperature variations, vibration and dust. This is relevant to installations close to production, where inspection equipment must operate alongside manufacturing processes.
ZEISS also identifies one-click programming, efficient robot motion and streamlined setup as ways to increase throughput. These features can also support more effective use of measurement capacity.
