Innovations In Metrology To Invest In Today

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New metrology tools, machines, and software are constantly raising the bar for manufacturers. The metrology industry makes it possible for manufacturers to improve the design, production, and inspection of their components while saving manufacturers’ time and money. It’s been a busy year for metrologists, too, with new software launches as well as improved training opportunities from major metrology dealers. Take a look at what’s new in metrology and where you should consider investing in new equipment or skills training.

 

Multi-sensor Coordinate Measuring Machines

 

Coordinate measuring machines aren’t limited just to probing systems. Multi-sensor coordinate measuring machines can be upgraded to use multiple sensors, including tactile probing systems, non-contact probes, laser scanners, and vision systems. You don’t need separate machines for each sensor type when you have a more flexible machine.

 

GD&T Training

 

GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing) training is critical for programmers and designers; without it, shops waste a lot of time validating component measurements. GD&T is a standardized code used by product designers to eliminate interpretation errors and the need for lengthy notes that used to accompany designs. Literacy in GD&T cuts down on errors, scrap, and the time it takes to validate components. For more news on new training opportunities that can better equip your team of programmers and operators, visit the Canadian Measurement Metrology Blog and follow new announcements.

 

New Polyworks Software

 

In 2017, Polyworks launched new software that can drastically improve productivity, data collection, and complex measuring. Some of the technology upgrades for Polyworks include:

 

  • A new technique for aligning point-to-object to different characteristics, i.e., different axes, centre points, or surfaces. It can also control weight and alignment direction, as well as scaling factor computation
  • The ability to predefine an entire list of laser tracker devices, as well as configure them, and manage multiple scanners at once, offering unprecedented real-time building capabilities
  • Probing surface features before CAD alignment or component definition is complete

 

Polyworks 2017 also introduces real-time collision analysis, meaning operators can adjust tool paths immediately and stop the accumulation of problems. Collision analysis happens while the measurement sequence is created, both online and offline, and warns operators of potential collisions.

 

In order to capitalize on the new powers of Polyworks 2017, your operators and programmers will also need more training. A new program called PC-DMIS/Polyworks Professor from CMM is designed to answer programmers’ questions about the software and solve those difficult alignment issues.

 

Renishaw Equator and E-Learning

 

Last on this list of metrology innovations and skills that programmers and operators need to know is the Renishaw Equator. The Equator is a comparative gauging system that’s compact and competitively priced. It’s an ideal solution for measuring multiple parts for reference and it’s highly repeatable. Operated by MODUS, Renishaw’s software program, it will require additional training for your programmers and operators. An E-Learning package available from CMM includes video lectures, labs, quizzes, and summary sheets that operators and programmers can refer to later.

 

Keep your quality assurance technology up to date by following the latest metrology innovations and training products. You can’t compete without high quality components and more efficient processes. New metrology technology will take your production to the next level.