Grant: Research Tools and Instruments - Category 1 (<$150,000)

A non-contact profiler is a device that can rapidly measure features ranging from several mm to several microns (thousandth of a mm) in size with an accuracy of up to 0.012 microns without touching the object being measured. The device will be used by Dalhousie University's Grinding, MEMS and Powder Metallurgy Research Groups. Each of these groups is focused on the design and manufacturing of small complex parts. Currently, these groups must rely on conventional touch probes in order to measure their parts. This technology lacks the required resolution, has difficulty measuring curved surfaces and may damage the objects being measured. The Grinding Research Group will use the non-contact profiler to accurately measure the geometry and surface finish of the small ground components used in the design of aircraft jet turbines and automobiles. The Grinding Research Group also intends to use it to measure the surface topology of grinding wheels in order to study the micro mechanics of individual abrasive grains in a grinding wheel to improve the design and application of grinding wheels and quality of ground products. The MEMS Research Group intends to use the device to measure size and range of motion of the micro-grippers, micro-crawlers and micro-stages they are currently developing. They also intend to use it to determine the surface roughness and frictional characteristics of MEMS devices. The Powder Metallurgy (P/M) Research Group is focused on the development of novel light-weight materials for automotive applications. These parts will improve the durability and fuel efficiency of tomorrow's automobiles. The non-contact profiler will primarily be used by this group characterize the surface roughness of these parts. These measurements are imperative because surface roughness has a significant impact on the fatigue strength of P/M parts and is an excellent indicator of wear and the resulting part life.