Common Non-Contact Measurement Devices & Methods

As their name implies, non-contact measurement methods involve the use of measurement technologies and measurement techniques to measure physical properties associated with an observed object without making physical contact with said object.
It’s important to note that the application of these methods and the selection of adequate sensors and transducers primarily depends on the physical property being measured and recorded, as well as the application for which the measurements are made. Here’s a breakdown of non-contact measurement methods:

The main benefits of non-contact measurement methods are the lack of physical contact between the transducer and the object whose physical property is being measured, as well as the speed and efficiency at which non-contact data acquisition systems capture, process, and store data.

The lack of physical contact significantly reduces the risk of damage, especially when dealing with fragile or thin objects—like semiconductors. This makes non-contact measurement methods incredibly safe but also quick and efficient, as they don’t have to make physical contact with the object to take measurements.

The combination of these benefits makes non-contact measurement systems suitable for high-speed production lines and manufacturing processes where minimizing downtime without sacrificing precision is crucial.

Non-contact measurement methods use non-contact measurement devices to collect the required data, convert them into electrical signals, and process those signals into legible data for further analysis or processing. Here’s a breakdown of non-contact measuring devices:

Non-contact measurement sensors found great use in applications that require measurement and profiling of fragile and easily damaged objects, as well as objects that radiate extremely high heat.

In the context of dimensional measurements, the use of non-contact measurement methods and devices offers data collection at fantastic speeds with minimal reduction in precision—the precision associated with non-contact dimensional measurements is usually within a single-digit micron.
With everything said, however, non-contact measurement methods and devices provide an alternative approach to those applications where traditional contact measurement isn’t physically possible or financially feasible.

3D laser scanner sensors are known to be highly advantageous in many industries as they are quick, accurate, and improve productivity without requiring scanning or repositioning. These sensors use cutting-edge imaging techniques that create a high-density point cloud, producing a 3D representation of the object instantly.

Their abilities are particularly useful for inspecting complex parts in manufacturing, such as gears or turbine blades. 3D laser snapshot sensors are perfect for processes involving intricate details and handling different materials and finishes, which would otherwise complicate measurement with standard laser sensors.

High accuracy is achievable using laser snapshot sensors for non-contact measurement through precise laser triangulation and advanced optical components, enabling them to capture micro-level details essential for quality assurance in industries like aerospace and automotive. With resolution capabilities often reaching micron levels, they can measure minute deviations from design specifications, ensuring stringent quality standards.

Laser snapshot sensors for non-contact measurement are essential in various industries, especially when traditional touch-based methods are impractical. Conventional non-contact methods, like laser displacement sensors or photogrammetry, often face challenges such as limited speed, difficulties in capturing complex geometries, or struggles with surface reflectivity.

Laser snapshot sensors like the LJ-S8000 Series are a cutting-edge advancement in this area and have emerged as a solution to these challenges. By capturing entire 3D profiles in a single snapshot, they enable efficient, accurate measurements even on difficult surfaces or in challenging industrial environments.

Their non-contact nature also reduces the risk of damage to sensitive or delicate components, which is especially valuable in precision engineering. Moreover, laser snapshot sensors for non-contact measurement represent a significant advancement in high-accuracy, non-contact measurement, addressing both efficiency and reliability in demanding industrial environments.

The foundation of a laser snapshot sensor is its ability to capture a 3D profile in a single shot, providing high-resolution measurements with unparalleled accuracy and speed. While other non-contact methods may require multiple measurements or scans from different angles to achieve the same level of detail, laser snapshot sensors can do it all in one go.

Furthermore, their advanced algorithms enable them to handle various surface conditions, such as glossiness or transparency, while maintaining precision and consistency. This makes them suitable for measuring a wide range of materials and objects, from shiny metal surfaces to soft rubber components.

KEYENCE is an industry leader in manufacturing non-contact measuring devices, such as sensors, measurement units, and devices for your data acquisition systems. If you have any further questions regarding non-contact measurement methods and devices like our LJ-S8000 Series, don’t hesitate to ask KEYENCE—our team of measurement experts will gladly help you with any inquiries you might have.