Automatic Contour Scanning

High-Speed Edge Detection with Integrated Vision System

Using the overview zoom camera or microscope objective, the system rapidly scans the sample contour to capture its exact shape and boundaries.

• High-speed scanning of full or partial sample outlines
• Accurate edge detection for complex geometries
• No manual tracing or positioning required
• Stored contour data integrated directly into the test program

This ensures precise and repeatable positioning of hardness test points relative to the sample geometry.

Intelligent Test Point Placement and Edge Offset Control

Once the sample contour is defined, users can create and automate test patterns based on the scanned geometry.

• Insert unlimited test points across the scanned image
• Define exact distances (offsets) from edges or features
• Maintain consistent spacing along irregular contours
• Combine with automated pattern editor for complex test routines

This capability is particularly valuable for applications where hardness must be measured relative to edges, surfaces, or transitions.

Fully Automated Hardness Testing Workflows

Automatic Sample Contour Scanning transforms traditional manual testing into a fully automated process.

• Automatic alignment and positioning of test points
• Reduced operator intervention and setup time
• Increased repeatability and measurement consistency
• Seamless integration with batch hardness testing and high throughput workflows

This enables efficient testing of complex or high-volume samples with minimal user input.

Automated vs Manual Edge Testing and Positioning

Traditional hardness testing methods often require operators to manually locate edges and position each indentation point. This approach can be time-consuming and introduces variability, especially when working with complex geometries.

Automatic Sample Contour Scanning provides a clear advantage:

Manual Edge Testing Limitations:

• Manual alignment of test points relative to edges
• Time-intensive setup for each sample
• Higher risk of positioning errors
• Limited repeatability between operators
• Inefficient for complex shapes and batch testing

Automated Contour Scanning with IMPRESSIONS™:

• Automatic detection of sample edges and contours
• Precise, repeatable placement of test points at defined offsets
• Significant reduction in setup time
• Consistent results across operators and test batches
• Ideal for high throughput hardness testing and automated workflows

By eliminating manual positioning, the system improves both accuracy and efficiency while ensuring consistent, repeatable measurements.

Ideal for 2D and 3D Hardness Mapping

This feature is especially powerful when combined with 2D and 3D hardness mapping, enabling detailed visualization of material properties across a sample.

• Generate hardness profiles across entire components
• Map hardness variations relative to edges and surfaces
• Support advanced material analysis and quality control

The result is a comprehensive understanding of hardness distribution across the tested sample.

Applications of Automatic Contour-Based Hardness Testing

Automatic Sample Contour Scanning is widely used in applications where geometry-driven testing is essential:

• Weld Testing – Perform hardness traverses along weld seams and heat-affected zones (HAZ)
• Case Depth Analysis – Measure hardness at defined distances from surfaces or edges
• Gear and Component Testing – Follow complex shapes and contours automatically
• Coating and Surface Treatments – Evaluate hardness relative to coating boundaries
• Failure Analysis – Investigate hardness variations near cracks, edges, or defects
  

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Optimized for Modern Automated Testing Environments

By combining high-speed scanning, intelligent software, and automated test execution, Automatic Sample Contour Scanning significantly enhances productivity and accuracy in hardness testing.

• Supports automated hardness testing and batch processing
• Improves consistency across complex sample geometries
• Reduces setup time and operator dependency

This advanced functionality ensures reliable, repeatable, and efficient hardness testing—making it an essential tool for modern laboratories and industrial environments.

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