I am designing an inexpensive contour checker for machined parts coming out of a lathe. I want to use a simple laser distance finder with a 0-10 VDC output, and a small toothed belt driven stepper motor to position the laser sensor along a delrin linear bearing.
The stepper motor will receive a move command, a certain time to settle will pass, and a sensor reading will be taken. This will repeat 10-15 times for a 4-6 inch part, and compare the input to existing data in a lookup table (multiple parts are programmed in)
The analog readings are taken, and if they are within a certain percentage of the "taught" values, the part passes.
I could use a micro plc, (perhaps a Mitsubishi) but am looking to do this in a low cost method.
If anyone is able to read my ramblings, and can decipher my thoughts, I'd like to hear your thoughts.