OrthoLux0 pages

Ultraprecision Optical CMM for Quality
Control and R&D in Orthopaedics.
The OrthoLux is an optical coordinate
measuring
machine
that
measures
component form of artificial joints in a variety
of materials with nanometre resolution. The
validated methodology* uses optical profiling
to generate three dimensional data sets
with resolutions as low as 10 nanometres.
The use of optical sensors contributes to
swift measurement speed and ensures that
the delicate component surfaces are not
damaged.

R&D

Production

In production, the OrthoLux is used to
measure the bearing surfaces of heads and
cups, including the cup rim, and to measure
radii, depth of cup and the concentricity of the
cup rim as well as the stem taper on modular
systems. On knee joints, the femoral and tibial
components can be measured and compared
to their respective CAD models or to individual
CTQ parameters. Mounted on an optional
anti-vibration platform, the robust metrology
system is used on the shop floor and can be
integrated into automated manufacturing
cells. Typical measurement times are in the
order of a few tens of seconds to a few minutes
and can include optional surface roughness
measurements.

On retrieved hip joints, the OrthoLux measures bearing
surfaces of head and cup and analyses the resulting
data sets for linear and volumetric wear. The shape and
location of the wear patch gives valuable information
on the failure mode. On modular joints, head and
stem taper can be measured and material loss can be
quantified with detailed measurements taking between
5 and 15 minutes. Femoral and tibial knee joints can be
measured and a before/after comparison to evaluate
wear in simulators can be carried out. Sub-nanometre
roughness and surface texture measurement can be
achieved with the optional White Light Interferometer
head.
The OrthoLux can be utilised to measure the surfaces
on many different materials including polished metals as
well as ceramics, PEEK and UHMWPE.
The familiar WindowsR interface enables the operator
to control the instrument with ease. Data analysis,
automation and export of results for fast report
generation are standard features on the OrthoLux.

* Full validation of the Optical CMM has been published in the Journal of Precision Engineering. Detailed information and publications can be found at www.redlux.net

www.redlux.net/OrthoLux