In-line, real time measurement system, based on optical coherence tomography

An OCT system has been developed by Heliotis and TNO to measure in line the 3D geometrical features of produced components. The main advancement is related to measurement speed: the OCT system can work on a production speed of 250 strokes of press per minute, that is around 0.25 s per each measurement. The main body of the measurement head integrates imaging optics, a LED light source and the camera. The interferometer part, which can be exchanged to adapt for other magnifications, includes imaging optics, a beam-splitter and a reference mirror. This integrated measurement head is placed on a linear motor in order to do measurements. Its characteristics are: - Field of view: 2.8 x 2.9 mm - Light source: LED 625nm - Working distance: 55.8mm