Heidenhain’s new VT122 Visual Tool Check (VTC) camera system is redefining precision, reliability, and efficiency in modern machining environments. Designed for manufacturers who demand uncompromising quality, the VT122 delivers three critical functions in one compact system — tool measurement, tool microscopy, and toolwear inspection — setting a new industry standard for intelligent, automated tool monitoring.
Equipped with dual high-resolution cameras, integrated ring lighting, and lateral illumination, the VT122 captures exceptionally detailed panoramic and close-up images of tool edges, flutes, and tool tips. Furthermore, its enhanced illumination and imaging flexibility allow precise evaluation of every tooth and cutting edge, ensuring no defect goes undetected. The system even enables imaging from below, offering a complete view of the tool’s geometry for deeper inspection insight.
With its touchless, non-contact measurement capabilities, the VT122 is ideal for delicate tools and sensitive edges. Supporting tool diameters starting from 1mm — including end mills, drills, toroid cutters, and ballnose cutters — the system empowers operators with unparalleled measurement repeatability and machining assurance. Integrated compressed air jets automatically clean both the tool and camera lens before inspection, ensuring consistent, contamination-free imaging inside the machine envelope.
Pictured left: The AI-supported results are presented clearly and concisely. Visual Tool Check from Heidenhain shows the average and maximum wear values for each flute.A major advantage of the VT122 is its seamless integration with Visual Tool Check software, which drives automated tool detection, wear assessment, and fault reporting. This powerful software provides intuitive inspection workflows, panoramic tool circumference imaging, breakage detection, and detailed wear-history documentation. With version 1.6 introducing AI-powered automated wear measurement, users gain unprecedented speed and accuracy in tool-condition monitoring — supporting industries where precision is critical, such as aerospace and medical technology.
Installed directly inside the machine’s work envelope, the VT122 enhances productivity by eliminating unnecessary trips to external metrology labs. Realtime inspection allows operators to monitor tool condition instantly, reduce scrap rates, prevent machine damage, and minimise downtime. By feeding measurement data directly into Heidenhain TNC controls, the VT122 streamlines presetting processes and boosts overall machining reliability.
Featuring a rugged IP66/68 housing, Gigabit Ethernet connectivity, and easy integration into automated machining cycles, the VT122 is built to function dependably in demanding industrial environments. Designed for manufacturers looking to optimise tool life, reduce total cost of ownership, and strengthen quality assurance, the VT122 is not just a camera — it is a holistic, intelligent tool inspection solution for the future of precision engineering.