SURFASCAN-3D - AN INDUSTRIAL 3D SURFACE TEXTURE CHARACTERIZATION INSTRUMENT

2D profile analysis has often in the past been considered sufficient to control the geometrical features of a surface and to ensure that they are compatible with the required functionalities. Yet, experience shows that 3D surface texture analysis is now essential wherever a complete assessment of the surface is required to enable the selection of the most appropriate surface texture to achieve a required functionality. This paper introduces measurement strategies and features considered as essential by SOMICRONIC when designing or developing 3D surface texture measuring instruments, knowing that the pursued aim is to assess the measured surface in a way to reveal the real surface. This is achieved without losing sight of existing ISO standardized concepts concerning surface texture profile analysis. Indeed, essentially for economical reasons, we consider that 3D surface texture stylus instruments must be designed to achieve classical surface texture profiles measurements and characterisations and to fulfil conditions and characteristics listed and described in existing surface texture ISO standards. We propose to develop in the next paragraphs, the following points: Design of the data acquisition unit of a 3D surface texture instrument Strategy for the measurement of the surface Application of these concepts - Examples.