The Z-axis probe of a vision measuring machine refers to the component used to measure the height or depth of a workpiece. It usually consists of a probe head and an associated motion mechanism. The Z-axis probe plays a crucial role in the vision measuring machine, as it enables precise measurement of the height of the workpiece surface. When the probe touches the workpiece surface, the Z-axis probe records the distance between the probe and the workpiece surface based on the set measurement parameters. These measurement data can be used to calculate dimensions such as the height, thickness, and depth of the workpiece. The design and functionality of the Z-axis probe may vary depending on the model and manufacturer of the vision measuring machine. Some vision measuring machines use mechanical probes, which move the probe to the desired position through mechanical motion. Others use non-contact techniques such as lasers or optical sensors to achieve contactless height measurement.

With the Z-axis probe, a vision measuring machine can achieve precise measurement in three-dimensional space, helping users obtain geometric features and dimensional data of workpieces. This measurement method has advantages such as non-contact, high precision, and high efficiency, and it is widely used in manufacturing, quality control, testing, scientific research, and other fields.

There can be various types of Z-axis probes for vision measuring machines, and here are several common types:
Mechanical probe: The mechanical probe is the most common type and usually consists of a retractable probe head and a motion mechanism. It measures the height of the workpiece through mechanical motion, with the probe head contacting the workpiece surface and measuring the distance between the probe and the surface.

Laser probe: The laser probe uses a laser beam to measure the height of the workpiece. It typically consists of a laser emitter and a receiver, measuring the distance between the workpiece surface and the probe by measuring the reflection or scattering of the laser beam.
Optical sensor: Optical sensors use optical principles for height measurement. Common optical sensors include confocal sensors, interferometric sensors, and infrared sensors, among others. These sensors can achieve contactless measurement by measuring the phase difference or reflection signal of light to determine the height of the workpiece surface.

Other contact probes: In addition to mechanical probes, vision measuring machines can also be equipped with other types of contact probes, such as scanning probes or micro-probes. These probes can make tiny contacts during measurement to achieve precise height measurement of the workpiece surface.

These different types of Z-axis probes may vary in design and functionality depending on the application requirements and specific manufacturer. Each type of probe has its unique advantages and applicable scope. The choice of which type of Z-axis probe to use depends on the measurement requirements and characteristics of the workpiece.

Different types of probes in vision measurement have their advantages and disadvantages, as follows:
Contact probes: Advantages: Mechanical probes are relatively simple and cost-effective. They can perform contact measurements, suitable for applications that require actual contact with the workpiece surface, and can measure surface roughness, among others. Disadvantages: Contact measurements may cause scratches or damage to the workpiece surface, making mechanical probes less suitable for fragile or vulnerable workpieces. Compared to coordinate measuring machines, their capabilities are far behind, with limited workspace, limited height of the vision Z-axis, small probe movement range, and high software requirements. The lack of 21-item calibration compensation means that accuracy cannot be guaranteed, and the flatness of glass cannot be compared with marble. Efficiency in measuring height and flatness is much slower than lasers.

Laser probes: Advantages: Laser probes enable contactless measurements, avoiding surface contact with the workpiece and reducing the risk of surface damage. They can achieve fast and high-precision measurements. They can play a significant role in efficient flatness requirement cases. Disadvantages: Laser measurements may be affected by the scattering and reflection of the light beam, which may pose challenges for specific materials or surface types. Laser probe equipment and operation costs are relatively high, and they can only measure height and flatness.

Optical sensors: Advantages: Optical sensors enable contactless measurements and are suitable for measuring sensitive surfaces or fine structures. They have high precision and can perform fast measurements. Disadvantages: Under specific optical conditions, they may be affected by ambient light, resulting in unstable measurements. Optical sensors can have higher equipment costs.

The choice of each probe type should be based on specific application requirements and the characteristics of the workpiece. It is important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each probe type and select the most suitable one for accurate and reliable measurement results.

In summary, at ARCiNTU, we specialize in industrial measurements and intelligent manufacturing. We offer a wide range of vision measuring machines and probes. With the advantages of foreign vision equipment combined with guidance from Professor Zhang Zhengtao's team at the Chinese Academy of Sciences Institute of Automation, our products feature high efficiency and precision. If you have any needs in this area, ARCiNTU can provide you with suitable vision measuring machines/probes. We sincerely invite you to contact us for further information about our products or any questions you may have.