Virtual Clamping for 3D Metrology

Streamlined workflows to enhance operational efficiency
Precise measurement capabilities across a diverse range of applications
Facilitates the reproducible positioning of various parts

Oberkochen, Germany | 8 July 2026 | ZEISS Industrial Quality Solutions

ZEISS Industrial Quality Solutions (ZEISS IQS) is introducing the latest updates for Virtual Clamping—an app within the ZEISS INSPECT 3D metrology software. In combination with the new Guided Holding Kit, Virtual Clamping enables the precise and flexible clamping of a wide variety of parts—from small to large components made from injection-molded, die-cast, or sheet metal.

This eliminates the need for component-specific clamping fixtures in many applications. The combination of hardware and software not only reduces fixture costs but also shortens setup times and significantly lowers labor costs.

Blue digital rendering of a technical component outline with highlighted measurement and clamping points in a virtual environment. — Virtual Clamping enables the precise clamping of small and larger parts with virtually no limitations

Lower costs and higher precision

Virtual Clamping replaces conventional, part-specific clamping fixtures with a cost-effective universal solution. The parts are supported without stress and positioned reproducibly for measurement. To this end, ZEISS has developed the new Guided Holding Kit. The basis for this is the universal pneumatic clamping device (UPD), which is already available. With the new Guided Holding Kit, ZEISS is expanding this solution with additional components, enabling it to be used in automated measurement processes with the ZEISS ScanBox optical 3D measuring machine. This ensures reproducible part mounting even in automated environments.

Guided Holding Kit: Semi-automated workflow

The new Guided Holding Kit from ZEISS fixtures parts with up to four contact points. Depending on the size and position of the part, ZEISS INSPECT software automatically inserts extensions to the measuring plate and collision bodies in the virtual measuring room. In addition, a setup measurement sequence is generated, allowing parts to be repeatedly positioned in less than 10 minutes. Using the software-generated assembly instructions, the universal holders can be mounted on the rotation table, and the generated alignment measurement sequence is executed via robot control. Users can then place the part on the rotation table and measure it without applying any stress.

New software features

A weight-force-compensated mesh can be analyzed and virtually clamped in various installation scenarios. The fully parametric basis for all calculations is the deformation model referenced to the measurement, which enables realistic inspection of all relevant parts of the vehicle body's sheet metal.

More information about Virtual Clamping with ZEISS INSPECT

PRESS CONTACT Bernd Balle ZEISS Industrial Quality Solutions

About ZEISS

ZEISS is an internationally leading technology enterprise operating in the fields of optics and optoelectronics. In the previous fiscal year, the ZEISS Group generated annual revenue totaling almost 12 billion euros in its four segments Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology, Industrial Quality & Research, Medical Technology, and Consumer Markets (September 30, 2025).

For its customers, ZEISS develops, produces, and distributes highly innovative solutions for industrial metrology and quality assurance, microscopy solutions for the life sciences and materials research, and medical technology solutions for diagnostics and treatment in ophthalmology and microsurgery. The name ZEISS is also synonymous with the world's leading lithography optics, which are used by the chip industry to manufacture semiconductor components. There is global demand for trendsetting ZEISS brand products such as eyeglass lenses, camera lenses, and binoculars.

With a portfolio aligned with future growth areas like digitalization, healthcare, and Smart Production and a strong brand, ZEISS is shaping the future of technology and constantly advancing the world of optics and related fields with its solutions. The company's significant, sustainable investments in research and development lay the foundation for the success and continued expansion of ZEISS' technology and market leadership. ZEISS invests 15 percent of its revenue in research and development – this high level of expenditure has a long tradition at ZEISS and is also an investment in the future.

With over 46,600 employees, ZEISS is active globally in around 50 countries with more than 60 sales and service locations, around 40 research and development facilities, and 30 production facilities worldwide (September 30, 2025). Founded in 1846 in Jena, the company is headquartered in Oberkochen, Germany. The Carl Zeiss Foundation, one of the largest foundations in Germany committed to the promotion of science, is the sole owner of the holding company, Carl Zeiss AG.

Further information at www.zeiss.com

ZEISS Industrial Quality Solutions

ZEISS Industrial Quality Solutions is a leading manufacturer of multidimensional metrology solutions. These include coordinate measuring machines, optical and multisensor systems, microscopy systems for industrial quality assurance as well as metrology software for the automotive, aircraft, mechanical engineering, plastics and medical technology industries. Innovative technologies such as 3D X-ray metrology for quality inspection round off the portfolio. In addition, ZEISS Industrial Quality Solutions offers a broad global spectrum of customer services with ZEISS Quality Excellence Centers close to its customers. The company is headquartered in Oberkochen. Production and development sites outside Germany are located in Minneapolis in the USA, Shanghai (China) and Bangalore (India). ZEISS Industrial Quality Solutions is part of the Industrial Quality & Research segment.