ZEISS craftsmanship since 1919

Enter a culture of quality

Take a look behind the scenes! Explore the metrology story of ZEISS and what has changed over the past decades. Even though the technology has evolved over time, ZEISS has maintained its craftsmanship and unique culture of quality all the time.

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100 years is just the start

2019 was a very special year for us – it commemorates 100 years of the first measuring technology presented by ZEISS at an industry fair: the iconic ZEISS Screw Gauge at the 1919 Leipzig Spring Fair.

While its first measuring tools were based on microscopy, over the years ZEISS Industrielle Messtechnik GmbH has developed a range of contact and multisensor measuring technology – a field in which the company has excelled. And today, after 100 years of ZEISS measuring we haven’t looked back ever since, by supporting our customers wherever the highest level of precision is required and by setting industry standards for over 100 years to help our customers manufacture a better future. It has been an exciting journey, and we are thrilled about what is coming up next.
 

100 Years Industrial Metrology at ZEISS

Join us on a journey through time

A century of quality assurance

Click through our history...

"ZEISS Fine Measurement Department” Foundation

1919

Directly after the creation of the "Fine Measurement Department", the Carl Zeiss company presented measuring instruments at the Leipzig Spring Fair in Germany in 1919 for the first time. The trade fair appearance marked the beginning of the history of Carl Zeiss Industrial Metrology.

First ZEISS large devices

1920

The breakthrough of replacement construction in the 1920s therefore also led to the "measurement revolution". Workpieces, gauges and tools of any geometric size and shape now had to be measured in units of millimeter fractions. The newly developed Optimeter from ZEISS from 1920 was probably the first measuring instrument ever to integrate optics into precision mechanics.

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First ZEISS Universal Measuring Microscope

1926

ZEISS also achieved significant technological progress with the ZEISS Universal Measuring Microscope, which was launched on the market in 1926. The universal measuring microscope made it possible for the first time for the user to determine all five parameters of the thread in one clamping.

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New ZEISS Universal Measuring Microscope

1953

In 1950, ZEISS began setting up the "Department for Technical Measuring Instruments". Three years after its foundation, the department caused a sensation with its new ZEISS Universal Measuring Microscope (UMM). The large instrument, which delivered very precise measurement results, attracted a great deal of attention among experts. With the binocular central view, in which all images and readings could be switched on, it contained an important technical progress in measurement.

First ZEISS digital measuring instruments

1963

In the 1960s there were signs of a revolution in measurement technology: Measuring instruments with numerical-electronic measured value output. At the beginning, the development of microelectronics had not progressed so far that a satisfactory solution could already have been found for precision metrology. In 1963, ZEISS introduced the "Tool Measuring Microscope 100/50 digital". The first measuring microscope that made it possible to read measured values digitally.

ZEISS UMM 500: High precision three-coordinate measuring machine

1973

In 1973, the first high-precision three-dimensional coordinate measuring machine built by Carl Zeiss was published under the name Universal Measuring Machine (UMM 500) with a measuring probe, integrated table, computer and its own measuring software called UMESS. This still largely unknown and sophisticated technology made it possible for the first time to measure components in three dimensions.

Switching ZEISS probe head

1976

In the 1970s, the mainly mechanically operating probe systems were an essential component of coordinate measuring technology and the revolutionary innovations of Carl Zeiss. Together with a number of further developments, they still represent the standard in measurement technology today. In 1976, Carl Zeiss introduced the switching probe as the second major sensor innovation. Its touch sensor is so sensitive that it even registers the sound pressure of loud noises.

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“ZEISS Industrial Metrology”“

1977

Thanks to the great success achieved by ZEISS with the world's first coordinate measuring machine (ZEISS UMM 500), in 1977, the responsible persons took into account the changed conditions in measurement technology and the new profile of the "Department for Fine Measurement" and renamed the "ZEISS Fine Measurement Department" into "ZEISS Industrial Metrology".

ZEISS WMM series

1978

The new workshop measuring machine series ZEISS WMM, which was launched on the market in 1978, offered a glimpse into the future of measuring. These bridge-type measuring machines were intended for use close to production in the workshop environment. At that time, it was not possible to use a highly sensitive measuring device directly in production - especially since manufacturing at the time was less than ideal, with more dust, oil mist, temperature and vibration challenges.

Marketing of CNC-controlled measuring devices

1980

In the 1980s, ZEISS had established itself as the world market leader and was now concentrating increasingly on the use of CNC-controlled horizontal-arm measuring devices. The sensors, controls and software for the measuring devices were supplied by Carl Zeiss. The instrument technology was supplied by Stiefelmeyer.

New 3D measuring machines

1982

The aim of ZEISS in the 1980s was to strengthen and further expand its market position by improving and further developing the measuring components, working on new technologies and expanding the range of machines. In 1982, Carl Zeiss introduced three new 3D coordinate measuring machines to the market: the gear measuring center (ZMC), the universal precision measuring center (UPMC) and the precision measuring center (PMC).

CAA procedures and CAD programming

1985

Another important measurement milestone in 1985 was the development of the CAA process (Computer Aided Accuracy). It mathematically corrects the guidance errors that occur when measuring with coordinate metrology. In the same year, ZEISS customers were also able to carry out CAD programming of CNC measurement sequences using the stored workpiece model for the first time. With these two developments, the company again succeeded in significantly reducing measuring times.

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Horizontal arm measuring system ZEISS SMC

1989

With the ZEISS SMC horizontal arm measuring devices, the company succeeded in designing a machine that made it possible for the first time to switch between mechanical and optical probing. This meant that the respective targeted measuring solution could be used for a wide variety of measuring tasks.

ZEISS CARAT

1990

In 1990 ZEISS introduced the CARAT technology. Another challenging development in the field of production measurement technology for eliminating temperature influences in high-precision measuring centers. In the same year, Numerex in Minneapolis, an American manufacturer of portal measuring instruments, was taken over in order to grow and expand the ZEISS portfolio.

ZEISS PRISMO VAST

1994

1994 which was the year in which Carl Zeiss successfully introduced the new VAST scanning technology, which enabled fast or accurate, multifunctional and at the same time cost-effective scanning, in shape elements and contours for example. In connection with the VAST technology, the 3D coordinate measuring machines PRISMO VAST sold very well from 1995 onwards. No other ZEISS product was built so frequently in such a short period of time. ZEISS PRISMO developed into a true classic and is the world's No. 1 for high-speed scanning.

Learn more about the ZEISS PRISMO

ZEISS CALYPSO

1995

There were also important innovations in the area of software: ZEISS CALYPSO, a fully graphical measurement and evaluation software with an interactive CAD core and an extensive function library for all common measurement tasks in geometric metrology, has established itself as standard software primarily in the machining industry and drive production. In 1995, ZEISS also opened a new chapter in production metrology with the ZEISS ScanMax: The ZEISS ScanMax made simple and precise measurement in production possible thanks to its design.

Learn more about ZEISS CALYPSO

ZEISS CONTURA

2000

In 2000, ZEISS launched CONTURA on the market. The measuring machine is designed for small and medium-sized companies and enables a high data density. Scanning with VAST technology allows form inspections at maximum speed with high quality measurement results. ZEISS has thus developed a machine that detects process changes at an early stage, ensures high manufacturing quality and minimizes rejects. Today, the ZEISS CONTURA is the best-selling machine in the ZEISS product portfolio.

Learn more about ZEISS CONTURA

ZEISS CenterMax

2001

The ZEISS CenterMax fits seamlessly into any production line. Since 2001, it has been possible to carry out production-related measurements. Now even large workpieces up to 1,000 kg can be measured without any problems. Thanks to the open design, feeding from three sides is also possible. In 2001, ZEISS service also became very important: ZEISS took over the majority of "Carl Zeiss 3D Metrology Services GmbH". Today, more than a fourth of the annual revenue is achieved with services, which shows how important customer service has become within a very short period of time.

Learn more about ZEISS CenterMax

Introduction of the ZEISS Navigator Principle

2002

ZEISS made further technological progress in 2002 with the ZEISS Navigator Principle. This made it possible to measure more quickly than ever before. The principle made it possible to scan continuously and easily without stopping and going in motion.

ZEISS GageMax

2003

The company gained another technological lead with the ZEISS GageMax. The coordinate measuring machine replaces fixed gauges in the cutting and forming industry and measures the entire range of components. In addition, maximum accuracy in the production environment is guaranteed.

Learn more about ZEISS GageMax

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ZEISS UPMC ultra

2004

Thanks to an extremely small measurement uncertainty with a specified length deviation of 0.3 µm + L/1000, the ZEISS UPMC ultra is ideally suited as a measuring instrument for research, development and quality assurance tasks as well as for the calibration of gauges and test specimens. The device with a high degree of precision represents another milestone in the ZEISS history.

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First steps into smart industry

2005

With the scalable IT solution ZEISS PiWeb for quality data management for the organization and flow of information, ZEISS is responding to the digitalized direction of the future, paving the way for smart industries and thus advancing product quality and productivity.

Find out more...

ZEISS METROTOM

2006

Starting in 2006, ZEISS broke new ground in measuring. With the METROTOM computer tomograph, ZEISS created a machine that combines metrology and tomography: a 3D computer tomograph with an X-ray tube and detector that illuminates the workpieces to be inspected. In this way, geometries and dimensions can be recorded even on the inside of tiny components.

Learn more about ZEISS METROTOM

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ZEISS O-INSPECT

2007

ZEISS has been offering the ZEISS O-INSPECT multisensor machine for optical and tactile measurement since 2007. Together with the ZEISS CALYPSO software, the measuring machine offers new possibilities to visualize inspection. The component is displayed simultaneously in the actual state, in the target display and with the visualization of the deviation. In the same year, ZEISS also won the Bosch Group Supplier Award for the third time in succession and delivered the 25,000th ZEISS 3D coordinate measuring machine.

Learn more about ZEISS O-INSPECT

ZEISS DuraMax

2008

With the slogan "Measurement to go", ZEISS promoted the latest product in 2008, the ZEISS DuraMax. The device offers state-of-the-art measuring technology at a reasonable price, is very easy to operate and can be operated in CNC mode. It is the ideal entry-level model for small companies. Today, the ZEISS Duplex System also allows test parts to be clamped and dismounted during measurement.

Learn more about ZEISS DURAMAX

New ZEISS ACCURA

2009

In 2009, Carl Zeiss Industrial Metrology achieved another technological highlight with the ZEISS ACCURA. At the time, it was a completely newly developed coordinate measuring machine, fast and precise, with laser safety barriers and large measuring ranges. This measuring machine focuses on performance and precision. With a wide variety of configurations, ZEISS ACCURA can be tailored precisely to individual customer requirements.

Learn more about ZEISS ACCURA

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ZEISS XENOS

2014

Set new dimensions in accuracy and dynamics in 2014. It is the new benchmark in the metrology industry. Where the highest precision demands apply – the high-end machine is at home in the measuring rooms. It combines precision at the limits of what is possible with a measuring volume of almost one cubic meter.

Learn more about ZEISS XENOS

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3D Digitization

2015

The ZEISS Industrial Metrology business group is accelerating its entry into the "Optical 3D Digitization" sector through the acquisition of a majority interest in Steinbichler Optotechnik GmbH. This step is further strengthening ZEISS in the field of optical measuring technology & 3D digitization and position it as a solutions provider in the area of quality processes in car body production.

Find out more...

The Ideal Measuring Room

2016

ZEISS develops guidelines for the Ideal Measuring Room for highest quality and maximum productivity. From right temperature to correct calibration of styli – all elements of Industrial Metrology are integrated and connected for a successul quality assurance.

Learn more about the Ideal Measuring Room

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ZEISS AIMax

2017

With the digital optical 3D sensor ZEISS AIMax, ZEISS has developed a new standard in robot-based 3D inline measurement technology for sheet metal processing and body construction. With the unique combination of three measuring principles, packaged in just one sensor, complex geometric features such as holes, bolts, gaps and flush surfaces can be measured with maximum robustness and attribute feature recognition is possible.

Learn more about the ZEISS AIMax

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ZEISS Metrology Portal

2018

All ZEISS services are networked on the ZEISS Metrology Portal, enabling users to access the entire array of digital ZEISS services with just a single login. The goal of the customer platform is to offer our customers outstanding, easy-to-use services and solutions, including continuous availability, easy operation and automated processes. It is the foundation for the metrology community of the future.

Check out the ZEISS Metrology Portal

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The future is coming…

2019

ZEISS is striving to make the next 100 years as successful and exciting together with you - our customers - as the last 100. So stay tuned for new products, solutions and digital elements which make your life in quality assurance better and easier.

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"ZEISS Fine Measurement Department” Foundation

First ZEISS large devices

First ZEISS Universal Measuring Microscope

New ZEISS Universal Measuring Microscope

First ZEISS digital measuring instruments

ZEISS UMM 500: High precision three-coordinate measuring machine

Switching ZEISS probe head

“ZEISS Industrial Metrology”“

ZEISS WMM series

Marketing of CNC-controlled measuring devices

New 3D measuring machines

CAA procedures and CAD programming

Horizontal arm measuring system ZEISS SMC

ZEISS CARAT

ZEISS PRISMO VAST

ZEISS CALYPSO

ZEISS CONTURA

ZEISS CenterMax

Introduction of the ZEISS Navigator Principle

ZEISS GageMax

ZEISS UPMC ultra

First steps into smart industry

ZEISS METROTOM

ZEISS O-INSPECT

ZEISS DuraMax

New ZEISS ACCURA

ZEISS XENOS

3D Digitization

The Ideal Measuring Room

ZEISS AIMax

ZEISS Metrology Portal

The future is coming…

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ZEISS Industrial Quality Solutions today

As an established leader, we understand our responsibility to shape the industry in the best interest of our customers. Therefore, we are in the drivers’ seat when it comes to addressing the most impelling industry needs, such as smooth connectivity, application-driven QA solutions in the production line, as well as the need for a single-source supplier for QA solutions.

The future starts now!

Together with our customers, we will aspire to make the next 100 years just as exciting and successful as the previous century. With a broad range of products and services as well as the willingness to innovate and push boundaries, ZEISS Industrial Quality Solutions is continuing to follow the path of success.

Erweiterung des Vorstands der ZEISS Gruppe

100 years of industrial metrology at ZEISS are a milestone on the path of successful and long-term partnerships with you, our customers. Finding the right solution for your challenge in quality assurance and guaranteeing the performance of your production – that is what motivates us. This year we want to thank you for your trust and look forward to the next 100 years by your side.

Dr. Jochen Peter, president and CEO of Carl Zeiss Industrielle Messtechnik GmbH
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