LK Metrology Point Cloud Software Enhances Digital Inspection Capabilities

Source: LK Metrology

LK Metrology’s Focus 2025 R1 is an intuitive point cloud inspection software integrated into its suite of products. This 3D digital inspection software offers part-to-CAD comparisons and advanced feature inspection. It includes the latest laser scanner driver NM API 5.0 R1 installer for optimal compatibility with laser scanning hardware.

The software is designed to seamlessly operate LK Metrology’s handheld H120 laser scanner and Freedom measuring arms. Its graphical user interface (GUI) provides direct access to frequently used functions. Inspection is guided by an ribbon taskbar that progressively leads the operator through each stage of an inspection job, from nominal part definition — including feature creation and extraction, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) — to handheld measurement through scanning and probing, alignment of the measured part and inspection reporting.

Focus supports a wide range of CAD formats, from neutral standards such as STEP and IGES to native formats including CATIA, Creo, NX, SolidWorks, ACIS, VDA-FS and Parasolid. This comprehensive library of formats facilitates a seamless flow of information across design, manufacturing and quality functions. The software provides tightly integrated data acquisition, intelligent processing and reporting, with direct access to workflow selection, customization and automation for streamlined setup and job execution. Results, including deviation analysis data, are presented in clear graphical or tabular reports, making them easy to interpret and share among operators, managers and suppliers.

The software also offers advanced capabilities, such as the ability to analyze virtually unlimited point clouds — even those with over 100 million points — and comprehensive point cloud tools. The Fuse algorithm can generate high-quality polygon meshes automatically by intelligently leveraging scanner metadata. Advanced feature detection routines automatically identify and analyze geometric elements, ranging from simple holes and slots to complex fir-tree and T-stud features. Focus also supports tactile probing and a leapfrog function to inspect very large parts by moving the measuring device. Virtual assembly functionality allows digital copies of reference parts to build an assembly with a CAD model or point cloud data, saving material and time by avoiding expensive templates, fixtures and lengthy physical assembly builds.

Automation is a key benefit of Focus, incorporating standard functionality to support non-stop execution of repetitive inspection tasks. Macro-based recording of actions requires no specific programming skills and can automate the entire inspection workflow, from nominal CAD import to final reporting. The software also provides a wealth of functionalities for specialized applications, such as the Airfoil Inspection module, which allows precise calculation of various aerofoil profile measurements from cross-sections and can generate dedicated reports.

The versatility of operation provided by the software benefits a range of industrial and non-industrial sectors. In the aerospace and defense sector, it is suitable for quality control of landing systems, engine blades, structures, and maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO). For automotive applications, it is well suited to press and body, benchmarking, aerodynamics, ergonomics, styling and trim. It also serves general manufacturing, heavy industries such as rail, shipbuilding and construction, power generation including renewable, healthcare and consumer sectors.