Automated Precision Inc. (API) and Steinbichler Vision Systems to Introduce the Smart Scan™ at Windpower 2010

Rockville, MD – May 11, 2010. Automated Precision Inc. (API) announced today they will debut their new Smart Scan™ Solution at the Windpower 2010 conference and exposition in Dallas, Texas May 23-26.

The Smart Scan™ Solution combines cutting-edge technologies from API and Steinbichler Vision Systems to create high-resolution 3D pointclouds without the need for multiple setups or triangulation targets. Using the Smart Scan™ system reduces the time needed to perform 3D surface quality control checks or large surface area scanning from days to hours.

The unique hardware setup of the Smart Scan™ provides increased measurement accuracy. Unlike current scanning and image stitching products which lead to overlap errors, bending errors, and other photogrammetric errors, Image Scan patches are stitched together based on precise coordinate measurements of the part and the scanner which lead to increased accuracy and lightning-fast image stitching.

So How Does It Work? First, the Smart Scan™ utilizes the long-range accuracy of API’s Tracker3™ and SmartTRACK™ Sensor to measure the exact 6-DOF position and orientation of the Steinbichler COMET 5^© 3D Scanner. Next, Steinbichler White Light Scanner technology obtains high-accuracy 3D pointcloud images. Finally, Smart Scan™ software uses the coordinate measurements to seamlessly stitch the 3D pointcloud images together resulting in one large 3D pointcloud.

Another advantage is that the Smart Scan™ process can be fully automated. Simple positioning systems used with the scanner, such as robot arms or gantries, decrease measurement time from days to hours. Measurement tasks that were not possible before are easily achieved using the API Smart Scan™ Solution.   

*      *     *

About API

Automated Precision is the world leader of advanced metrology solutions for industrial and research applications. Founded by Dr. Kam Lau in 1987, API has pioneered progressively higher standards of accuracy for coordinate measuring and machine tool operations. API products are installed and used by all of the world’s leading aerospace, automotive, machine tool, and CMM manufacturers. API’s experienced engineering team is unmatched in its ability to deliver advanced metrology products which meet the needs of rapidly evolving industrial technologies. For more information, visit http://www.apisensor.com

Save a PDF version of this press release (click to download)

Learn More about Smart Scan™

For More information about API's Laser Tracker:

API's Laser Tracker web page (Tracker3™)

API Laser Tracker Videos on Youtube

Tracker3™ Laser Tracker Product Brochure (click to download)
PDF Document. English Language. (778 Kb)

Tracker3™ Laser Tracker Product Specifications (click to download)
PDF Document. English Language. (65 Kb)