A calibration target is a reference object that consists of a defined shape grid pattern manufactured to a surface. The target is used to calibrate the projection of a DIC experiment together with the Dantec Dynamics’ DIC software, Istra4D. Each target has its own identification (ID) and properties including; background & foreground color, format & layout, serial number and more importantly, nominal grid square size, thickness, and standard deviations of the square grid intersections.
A certificate of target calibration can also be issued by Dantec Dynamics which certifies that the calibration target is measured according to the standards of the German national accreditation body (DaKKs) and is calibrated in Istra4D according to the target’s actual physical properties. The calibration involves the measurement of the X, Y, and Z intersection coordinates of the square grid, which is then used to define the target ID. This option can be additionally supplied for any Dantec-issued calibration target.
Each calibration target has its own physical and virtual ID, including a physical serial number with a QR-coded virtual link to the Dantec Dynamics’ DIC software, Istra4D. Istra4D has a register of the dimensions and parameters of each calibration target. QR-code recognition saves time for the user, as any target presented in front of the DIC system is detected automatically without the user having to search for the respective target in a calibration target list. It also removes the possibility of mistakes being made through the incorrect selection of an ID, which can cause incorrect dimensional scaling, reduced accuracy, and increase measurement standard deviation results.
Users also have the possibility to create & print custom-defined black or white calibration targets with their associated QR-codes. Older Dantec-issued calibration targets can also be retrofitted as well. Printing calibration targets has the advantage that users can perform a measurement without having to purchase a calibration target. This allows for quick and simple DIC measurements to be performed with lower accuracy (measurement uncertainty) requirements.
