Measuring Center provides single and multi-point measurements.

Press Release Summary:




CenterMax Production Measuring Center has effective measuring volume of 35 x 47 x 27 in. with accuracy of u1 = 1.3 + L/350. VAST universal scanning probe head covers wide array of measurement tasks. Temperature resistant frame consists of carriers made of invar, providing optimal thermal and dynamic damping properties and making measuring center resistant to extreme shop floor conditions. Accuracy is guaranteed over temperature range from 59 to 95°F.



Original Press Release:



Carl Zeiss IMT Corporation Introduces New CenterMax Production Measuring Center



MINNEAPOLIS, September 4, 2002 - Carl Zeiss IMT Corporation today introduced the new CenterMax Production Measuring Center at IMTS '02 (Booth # 4501). CenterMax was developed to meet the increasing need for adaptable measuring and inspection strategies in the production environment. Shorter production cycles, smaller batch sizes with maximum flexibility are the most important demands on the production departments and therefore on the measuring technology. The new, state-of-the-art bridge-type coordinate measuring machine can be used right next to machining centers. CenterMax offers increased resistance and accuracy, enhanced flexibility and optimized measuring volume.

Higher resistance and accuracy

The patented temperature resistant frame (TRF) consists of carriers made of invar, a special type of steel with an extremely high portion of nickel, and mineral casts. This material combination provides the measuring center with ideal thermal and dynamic damping properties and makes it resistant to extreme shop floor conditions. This eliminates the need for a special inspection lab or a protective enclosure. The machine's accuracy is guaranteed over a temperature range from 15 to 35°C (59-95°F). The active anti-vibration system, included in the standard version, protects CenterMax against floor vibrations.

Increased flexibility and optimized measuring volume

CenterMax offers an ideal ratio between footprint and work range and features an optimized clamping range. A pallet carrier frame, a granite plate or a rotary table can be integrated in the machine bed. This allows for cutting-edge flexibility for part loading from all three sides. The clamping range is located below the measuring volume. As a result, loading systems, rotary table and clamping fixtures can be used without any loss in measuring range. The entire measuring range is available for the workpiece.

CenterMax has an effective measuring volume of 35 x 47 x 27 in. (900 x 1200 x 700). It can be equipped with a 16-position probe changer rack without reducing the measuring range. The small footprint ensures optimum integration on the production floor. With an accuracy of u1 = 1.3 + L/350, the CenterMax meets the most demanding measuring tasks.

CenterMax comes with the VAST universal scanning probe head that is suitable for single and multi-point measurements and covers a wide array of measuring tasks. When using VAST, the CMM user is able to check a wider range of feature tolerances (including form, size and location) than with traditional probing technology. Productivity is improved by eliminating multiple set-ups or the need to transport parts between different measuring machines. VAST also offers the added reliability of very high data density.

CenterMax is equipped with Calypso CAD-based software. Part programs are developed by using a CAD model, inputting data from part drawings, or by reverse engineering.

Much-coveted Design Award

For its outstanding design, CenterMax received the coveted "Red dot" award from the Design Center North Rhine-Westphalia. The award comes from one of the major design competitions worldwide and stands for acceptance among the very best in design and business.

Carl Zeiss IMT designs and manufactures coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) and other industrial metrology equipment. For more information, contact Carl Zeiss IMT Corporation, 6250 Sycamore Lane North, Maple Grove, Minnesota 55369, (800) 752-6181, or visit www.zeiss.com/imt.

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