Semi-automated inspection unit for ceramics

A swept source optical coherence tomography system (SS OCT) combined with the convenience of automated scanning capabilities defines an innovative way to inspect large objects three-dimensional in high-resolution. The OCT is an optical, non-destructive and non-contact measurement technology, which generates unique object data with up to 2 mm axial resolution. Our inspection system with a three-axis robotic positioning system is capable of measuring large areas up to 400 mm in square instead of the limited field of view of existent OCT setups. It demonstrates the capability for in-depth and high-speed quality inspections on high performance ceramic electrolytes. This makes it possible to detect flaws, like cracks, pinholes or inclusions in such samples. Pristine used in medical applications, the relevance of OCT for testing of non-biological samples in manufacturing and research is increasing. We presented a combination of SS OCT and a semi-automated scanning robot, which is perfectly suited for high-resolution, in-depth and high-speed acquisition needed for in-line quality management of high-performance ceramics and other materials.