ZEISS Research & Quality Solutions (ZEISS RQS) has introduced ZEISS TALOS, a metrology robot built for automated, high-volume inspection. The system pairs metrology-grade accuracy with robotic kinematics, and ZEISS states that it delivers measurement uncertainty below 100 µm across a reach of 3.30 metres.
According to the company, the robot positions its sensor precisely and repeatably without external tracking systems or reference markers. That capability is intended to make reliable measurement possible on medium-sized and large components, including areas that conventional line-of-sight optical systems struggle to reach.
An integrated measurement unit
ZEISS TALOS is not a single instrument but a set of components specified to work together. The metrology robot ZEISS TALOS MR carries the compact blue-light sensor ZEISS TALOS AX; the package is completed by the metrology-grade ZEISS TALOS RT rotation table and the ZEISS TALOS Safeguard safety concept.
“ZEISS TALOS marks a fundamental shift in the automated metrology category: metrological capabilities are integrated directly into the system, while the speed, range and flexibility of robotic kinematics are retained,” said Dr. Jan Thesing, Head of Business Unit 3D Optical Systems at ZEISS, in a statement released with the launch.
One sensor for surfaces and features
Optical metrology has long faced a trade-off between fast areal surface capture and precise measurement of discrete features. ZEISS presents the TALOS AX sensor as a way to close that gap: a newly developed optical sensor performs full-field geometry acquisition and feature measurement within a single automated workflow.
The sensor carries two 24-megapixel cameras that capture images at 100 Hz, rising to up to 200 Hz in fast scan mode. A 500 mm wide measurement volume and four multidirectional feature flashes allow it to cover large surfaces for geometry analysis and digital twin creation, as well as defined features such as holes, edges, bolts and threads.
Designed for production conditions
ZEISS says the robot and system concept are built to withstand conditions typical of manufacturing environments, including temperature variation, vibration and dust. Measurement tasks can be prepared offline from the CAD model, with ZEISS INSPECT calculating the required measurement positions and robot paths automatically — work the company says significantly cuts the time and effort needed to plan new inspection jobs.
One-click programming, efficient robot motion and a streamlined setup are presented as means of raising throughput and making better use of available measurement capacity. ZEISS INSPECT also supports complete analysis, report generation and integration of measurement results into existing production processes.
Target industries and applications
ZEISS TALOS is aimed at automotive, aerospace and commercial vehicle manufacturing, for use both near the production line and in dedicated measurement rooms. Listed applications include car bodies, hang-on parts and giga-casting components, along with aerostructures, jet engines, truck cabins and weld seams.
High-resolution measurement data is intended to support evaluation of component quality and deviation. Virtual tools can be used to assess functional dimensions, gap sizes and flushness — for example in automotive assembly, where such checks are routine.
The launch announcement did not include pricing, availability dates or independent validation results for the system.