Last year, we introduced a new product in our measurement systems portfolio: the 5-Newton ultra-precision force sensor. Over the past year, we have released two new versions that enhance its applicability and usability. The 5N Damped is a version of the existing 5N version that, as the name suggests, features a damping mechanism designed for higher operating speeds and ultra-fast dynamic force measurements. For applications requiring a wider force range, we have launched the 20N version. Its higher measurement capacity and increased overload protection enable accurate force measurements in more demanding applications. These new developments enable an even wider range of applications for our load cells. Like the original version, both new variants are suitable for bi-directional force measurements in compression and tension directions. Discover further benefits of the sensors in our recent Whitepaper.
Poland has a strong manufacturing industry and many CNC machine builders, making it an excellent venue to present our latest machine tool innovation: the Multi Probe Analyzer (MPA). Developed by IBS Precision Engineering, the MPA is an extension kit for the Lion Precision Spindle Error Analyzer (SEA). Together with our partner Lion Precision, we showcased this latest development at the exhibition. The MPA separates target form error from spindle error motion, enabling the true spindle behaviour to be analysed independently of the target geometry. The system is designed for spindles with error motions in the order of 500 nm or smaller, where target form error can contribute significantly to the measurement result. Would you like to find out more about the MPA for SEA? Read our Whitepaper.
Another development we presented was our smart air bearing. An innovation project, the first version of which we presented at the Precision Show last year, has been further developed. This flat air bearing with an integrated capacitive sensor measures dynamic changes in fly height with resolutions in the order of tens of nanometers. This allows real-time monitoring of fly height performance, for example to control the fly height, whenever ultra-precision motion, but also ultra-precision control, is required.
During an oral session, our colleague Wouter Jutte had the honour of presenting how we model and predict the dynamic behaviour of new machines. This is a fundamental competence within IBS that is applied throughout the engineering process. In our many years of experience as machine builders, we have developed an advanced Dynamics Toolbox in which our expertise has been documented and standardised. Using this toolbox, we can predict 80–90% of the key factors influencing dynamic behaviour long before detailed engineering begins. This improves the quality, speed and predictability of our development projects and offers our customers a reliable, tested way to understand and improve the dynamic behaviour in their systems. Find out more about this Dynamics Toolbox from our engineering competences.