Set Up and Add Targets

Each laser projector uses target points to locate itself with respect to your tooling. Each target consists of reflective material that returns the laser light to the same spot it originated from. The laser projector detects this light with one or more CCDs, thus confirming the light hit the target. By using multiple targets (at least four), a laser projector can triangulate its position relative to the target points. More accuracy when describing the target locations results in the laser projector knowing its exact location. Using more than four target points creates more accuracy when the laser projector is locating itself. The placement of target points is crucial to ensure that the laser can locate itself precisely.

Target points should not form a symmetrical pattern. Any degree of symmetry results in confusion for the laser projector, resulting in its losing where it is with respect to the tool.

Vary the Z or depth value between points as much as possible to ensure accurate laser projection across the entire tool.

Any areas outside the target coverage area will lose accuracy and may result in incorrect laser projection. To determine the target coverage area, you can draw lines between each target and all adjacent targets around it. Once you have done this for each target, you can start to see your target points forming a polygon. Any part of your tool that lies within the targeting polygon will project accurately. Any areas on your tool that lie outside the targeting polygon will not display accurately, and more targets are needed to expand the polygon.