Universal clamping fixtures

ZEISS OmniFix®

No matter what kind of workpieces you have, with the universal clamping fixtures from ZEISS OmniFix you'll save time and money. We offer a variety of clamping fixtures which you can use to securely and intelligently clamp your workpieces, thus avoiding costly customized solutions.

Benefits for you

Universally application
Reproducible measurement processes
Faster clamping
Compatible with other ZEISS products

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What must you consider when clamping a workpiece?

All features accessible
First you must ensure that all elements being measured can be accessed by the styli.
Secure and wobble-free positioning
It must be possible to position the workpiece firmly on the support so that it cannot be deformed or moved.
Neither too tight nor too loose
Your workpiece should not be seated too tight or too loose. Your workpiece will then still be able to “function” regardless of temperature fluctuations, i.e. react without becoming overtensioned.

Easy clamping – even for the
most complex workpieces.

Five basic facts you should know about clamping workpieces

Clamping fixtures are the ideal solution for part inspectors who must position and stabilize workpieces for precise results. This quick reference guide explains the basics and terminology; specific solutions for applications such as contact, optical and CT measurement will be examined in the coming articles.

1. Clamp or hold?

Exact, stable positioning before and during the measurement is decisive. Even changes in the μm range affect the results. Workpieces are either clamped or held depending on the situation. Here is the difference between the two:

Clamping: Temporary securing of a part in a defined orientation and position using force closure. Clamping fixtures are used in measurement technology whenever probing forces take effect or machine movements can influence the position of the workpiece (e.g. active damping).

Holding: Bringing a body into a defined position without exerting force. Holding devices are usually used in optical measurement technology or for CT applications (see VDI Directive 2860).

2. Degrees of freedom

A system or body can move in six different ways: in three directions (translationally) and about three axes (rotationally).

3. Static determination

If all six degrees of freedom of a workpiece are fixed, this is referred to as "static determination". Always strive for static determination if you work with stable, nondeformable workpieces in measurement technology.

4. Static underdetermination

If one or more degrees of freedom of a workpiece is/are not fixed, this is referred to as "static underdetermination". This always must be avoided in measurement technology.

5. Static overdetermination

Static overdetermination occurs if multiple adjustment planes are assigned to a single reference plane in one direction. Static overdetermination is used if "soft" workpieces made of e.g. sheet metal or plastic are deformed prior to assembly, e.g. so that they correspond to the installation situation.

ZEISS OmniFix® Portfolio

Whether for tactile, optical or X-ray applications: The mounting of the component on the measuring device is crucial in order to obtain conclusive and accurate measurement results. The ZEISS OmniFix portfolio is suitable for a wide range of configurations and measuring devices. We offer a choice of well-designed kits; the components can be also purchased individually, as well as universal clamping devices such as vises and three-jaw chucks.