Vision Engineering Hawk Duo CNC Automated Optical & Video Measuring Microscope

The Hawk Duo CNC offers a measuring stage range of up to 200 × 150 mm (X × Y), with a generous Z-axis travel of up to 244 mm.

• The system uses high-precision encoders (0.5 µm resolution), and with the 200×150 mm stage and under controlled conditions, it can achieve repeatability in XY down to ~ 2 µm (2 + (4.5L/1000) µm ).
• The specification for repeatability in Z is around 10 µm in typical use with macro lenses.

• It includes both macro and micro-objective lenses. Macro options include 1×, 2×, 5×, 10× etc., while micro objectives extend magnification (e.g. up to 50× or more depending on configuration).

• Hawk Duo CNC combines optical measurement (via Dynascope™ optical head) with video measurement. This allows operators to switch seamlessly between optical inspection (better for fine or low-contrast features) and video edge detection (useful for routine or bulk measurements).
• The Dynascope technology enhances contrast and edge visibility, helping with black-on-black, white-on-white, or transparent materials.

• It uses PC-based metrology software (e.g. M3 software) with “Touch2Measure” multi-touch capability: users can use touch gestures to zoom, pan, and measure, which helps reduce operator training and error.
• Measurement routines can be programmed; the stage has CNC control in all three axes, enabling automated measurement runs and consistent results.
• The stage is factory calibrated with Non-Linear Error Correction (NLEC), which compensates for stage errors across its travel to improve accuracy.

• Surface illumination via programmable LED ring lights for general lighting.
• Episcopic (through-lens) illumination, which helps with reflective or contoured surfaces.
• Substage illumination (back-light) with iris adjustment, which helps with contrast, especially for edges, translucent / turned parts, or when defining outlines. Optional filters available.

• The Hawk Duo CNC occupies a footprint of approximately 750 mm × 700 mm × 780 mm (W × D × H) in its typical configuration. (This may vary depending on measurement stage and accessories.)
• It includes a precision measurement stage and requires a stable bench or base to minimise vibrations. Also, operator access (height / ergonomics) matters because of eyepiece-less viewing head design (Dynascope) which helps reduce eye-strain.

• High magnification reduces depth-of-field and field-of-view: accurate positioning and stable lighting are critical when measuring fine features. If not carefully managed, parts of the specimen may fall out of focus.
• The cost of CNC and optional features (e.g. micro objectives, filters, longer working-distance lenses) can be significant; selecting only the needed configuration helps manage costs.
• While Dynascope enhances low contrast parts, very extreme conditions (very transparent or highly reflective materials) may still present challenges.
• Stage size (200×150 mm) is sufficient for many parts, but very large assemblies will need either a larger measuring stage or multiple setups.