Optical Profilometry: Precisely Analyze Surfaces | GBS
In industrial environments and research, reliable surface measurement plays a central role. Precise 3D measurement data form the basis for manufacturing processes, quality control, and product development.
Profilometry allows complex surface structures to be captured and analyzed. Our modern systems are capable of performing these tasks with high speed, resolution, and flexibility. This enables companies to secure their manufacturing processes and develop innovative products.
Why Precise Profilometry Is Crucial
Profilometry refers to the quantitative measurement and analysis of surface structures. This method records height profiles and topographical data to accurately determine roughness, waviness, and microstructures. In practice, a distinction is made between tactile and optical methods.
Tactile devices measure the surface mechanically, while optical systems work contactlessly and capture the entire surface in three dimensions. Companies should therefore rely exclusively on optical profilometry. It enables standardized measurements according to ISO 21920 and ISO 25178 and is used for applications ranging from process monitoring to the development of new materials.
Applications of Optical Profilometry
Metalworking
Surfaces of milled and turned parts are inspected for roughness and microstructure to maintain manufacturing tolerances in the automotive and mechanical engineering industries.
Semiconductor
Manufacturing
Wafers and microchips are checked for flatness, roughness, and microstructures to ensure process reliability and functionality in semiconductor production.
Medical Technology
Implants and medical components are analyzed for surface quality and biocompatibility to comply with regulatory requirements and ensure proper function in the body.
Additive
Manufacturing
3D-printed components are extensively examined for roughness, defects, and dimensional accuracy to verify process quality and end-product properties.
Tool and Cutting Edge Analysis
Cutting tools and indexable inserts are evaluated for edge radius, microgeometry, and wear to document service life and ensure manufacturing quality.
Optical Components
Lenses, mirrors, and prisms are measured for shape deviations, surface roughness, and coating quality to guarantee optical performance.
Electronics
Manufacturing
Solder joints, contact surfaces, and microstructured components are precisely measured to ensure stable electrical connections and production reliability.
Tribological Testing
Wear surfaces and protective coatings are analyzed for material loss, surface changes, and layer thickness to document the lifespan and functionality of components.
Research and
Development
Material samples, test surfaces, and new materials are examined in laboratories for surface structure, roughness, and topography to support development processes and secure innovations.
Optical Measurement Technology and Solutions from GBS
GBS Metrology GmbH offers a wide range of measurement systems in the field of profilometry. Optical 3D sensors and profilometers from the smartWLI series provide measurement data with high speed and resolution.
The sensors are compact and can be easily integrated into existing production lines. Using GPGPU technology, image data is processed in real time. The integration of a flexible SDK allows measurement systems to be directly embedded into production lines and enables the implementation of custom software solutions.
Our product range includes various sensors, such as smartWLI firebolt for high-speed applications and smartWLI compact for general inspection tasks. Systems like the Cylinderinspector3D are designed for specialized measurement tasks, such as analyzing cylinder bores.
With GBScope and GBScanner, automated measurement stations for medium-sized samples are available. The sensors support objective magnifications from 2.5× to 115× and can capture structures with lateral dimensions starting at 0.3 µm. Measurement data is analyzed using MountainsMap® software, which also enables automated analyses.
Optical Profilometry – Our Products
smartWLI GBScope
Technological Advantage Through Innovative Measurement Technology
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Precise 3D measurement of roughness and microstructures using white-light interferometry
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Fast data evaluation with GPU-based Speedytec® technology
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Advanced Quality Control (AQC) for reliable measurement results
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Compact design for flexible integration in laboratories and production
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Wide range of objective options for various measurement tasks
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Modern software interfaces for easy integration into existing systems
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Standard-compliant measurements according to ISO standards
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Customizable to specific measurement requirements
GBS systems use white-light interferometry for three-dimensional measurement of roughness and microgeometry. GPU-based Speedytec® technology processes large data sets within seconds. Advanced Quality Control (AQC) checks each measurement point to detect outliers early.
The combination of compact design, flexible objective selection, and modern software integration makes the measurement systems suitable for both laboratory applications and continuous industrial use. The systems comply with standard requirements and can be configured for specific measurement tasks.
Profilometry Solutions from GBS for Every Requirement
GBS offers powerful optical profilometry systems that capture surfaces quickly and precisely. The devices can be flexibly integrated into production lines or laboratories and provide standard-compliant measurement results for a wide range of applications. Individual consultation and free test measurements ensure a tailored solution for every measurement task.
