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The History and Evolution of Coordinate Measuring Machine CMM Controllers
Computer numerical control (CNC) is a method for automating the control of machine tools by using dedicated hardware, software and microcomputers. It is commonly used in manufacturing for machining parts and measuring them, through the execution of a part program containing the instructions and parameters the machine tool or probe will follow, such as the feed rate and the axes speed and position.
3D Scanning Meets 3D Metal Printing
3D metal printing is a rapidly expanding manufacturing technology with unique strengths that open up more possibilities for flexible product development, enhanced performance, and shorter lead times. The big challenge: Relatively high costs combined with extra support structure. There is widespread lack of knowledge among potential customers on how to use this innovative technology to realize its potential.
6 Reasons to Reevaluate Optical Comparators
As beneficial as a simple solution such as an optical comparator can be for users, there are a few things to consider. Wolfram Fröhlich, Business Unit Director PL sCMM (Vision Unit) from Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence explores six reasons why optical comparators may not be the best choice and how an all-in-one alternative solution may be more beneficial.
Vehicle safety from A to Z
The production of automobiles can no longer be imagined without using special struts for optimum stabilization of vehicles. In order for these metal sheet components to seamlessly integrate into the vehicle body, changes in shape as well as position and size deviations are verified with the help of three-dimensional scan data.
The Difference Between a Certified Preowned and a Used CMM
Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence Preowned CMM division's goal is to take the "used" feeling out of the used CMM buying experience. We don't believe in bait-and-switch tactics, selling old software or computers, and not backing up each and every purchase with parts and service availability, technical support, training and a warranty.
Deformation Analysis with MoveInspect DPA
Climatic tests are carried out for the evaluation of environmental influences on new production materials. In order to determine 3D deformations arising during the tests, the mobile 3D industrial measurement system DPA is the ideal tool. The results of a large number of measuring points are available within minutes, and graphical output options make the interpretation of deformations much easier.
Advancements in Laser Tracker Technology
Laser tracker technology continues to advance, offering more capabilities and functionality than ever. This video shows advancements in laser tracker probing technology such as the Leica B-Probe, and Leica T-Scan 5 and discusses how tracker-machine automation is becoming a go-to technology in many industries that require independent positioning control and feedback for industrial robots.
The Fast and High-Precision Approach to Modern Automotive Design
Even in these modern times of high-technology and automated production, there are some areas in which machines do not have a role to play: a new automobile, for instance, first takes shape using a pen, paper and clay. When creating a hand-shaped design model made of a special modelling clay, in particular the visible and thus design relevant free form areas play an important role. A car´s sporty or elegant appearance, for instance, is defined through individual ‘tornado lines’ or roof lines, tailgates or mud guards – result is the unmistakable and distinctive shape of a new automobile whose surface, thanks to using a SmartScan-HE for the first-time measurement, complies with every single quality requirement.
Machine Shop Inspection To Go
There is a lot of exciting new hardware and software technology coming out of the world of portable measurement. These systems are more accurate and easier to use than their predecessors.
Measure it Fast: Inspection Speed Through Automation
Given the choice, manufacturing professionals would always choose faster – a faster processor, device, or machine – as long as crucial factors like price and accuracy remained constant.
Measurement Technologies Step Up to Production Machining Needs
With the evolution of this machinery and their related processes, manufacturers of high-to-medium volume turned parts are facing increased inspection requirements in terms of frequency, feature measurement, and production statistics, as well as rising accuracy specifications.
Reverse Engineering with the AICON SmartScan Series
The term ”reverse engineering” describes the process of fully digital construction elements being extracted from an already existing product; or in other words, the generation of the digital three-dimensional data of a real object. In the course of many years in the business, AICON 3D Systems has established long-standing, profound experience and know-how in the field of three-dimensional optical data acquisition for reverse engineering processes, not only with regard to the development of system solutions, but also in connection with current applications.
Model Based Definition Promises Big Dividends for Quality Assurance
In the long evolution of 3D CAD, you would not think innovative progress is possible at this point. Take Model Based Definition, or MBD, a term and methodology long tossed around by software developers and the aerospace industry.
Multisensor Metrology Comes of Age
If you were to ask a typical user in the industry what “Multisensor Metrology” means, you are likely to get a variety of answers.
Modern Day Metrology Surpasses Trial And Error
Tube and pipe bending shops are a rare breed in the manufacturing industry and they face important challenges exclusive to their discipline. Measuring the very tubes and pipes they bend is one such challenge. In this industry, accuracy counts. A tube that does not meet specifications will likely head to the scrap bin, as it won’t have the proper clearance to mate-up and connect with subcomponents. Market forces demanding tighter tolerances and better costs are forcing tube and pipe benders to rethink their processes and improve accuracies as well. Advancements in measurement technology designed specifically for this application can increase productivity and precision while dramatically reducing scrap rates.
System Integration
The Hexagon Metrology Special Systems Group (SSG) is a dedicated team within Hexagon Metrology that does design, system integration and project management for custom and semi-custom integrations of coordinate metrology products with other manufacturing technology.
The Leica Absolute Interferometer
Leica Geosystems was the first laser tracker manufacturer to put an ADM into a laser tracker. The introduction of the LTD500 in 1995 revolutionized the way that laser trackers were used. If the beam was interrupted the operator no longer had to return to a known location to “reset” the IFM distance.
Coordinate Measuring Machine Accuracy on the Shop Floor
Coordinate measuring machine (CMM) accuracy is dependent upon the ambient thermal environment in which it operates. Changes in temperature cause the scales, machine structure and artifacts being measured to expand, contract, and, in some cases, distort in a non-linear manner.
Tracking Progress - Re-evaluating Laser Tracker Technology
Laser trackers have long been the portable metrology tools of choice for companies serving the aerospace, automotive and other large-scale manufacturing sectors.
Using a CMM for Gear Inspection
What are the benefits of using a CMM for gear inspection, and what types of gears can be inspected? PC-DMIS software supports and enables the gear inspection process.
Gear Inspection with Leitz Coordinate Measuring Machines
CMMs, when properly equipped, are the ideal tool for measuring gears. They combine the flexiblity of a general purpose measuring system, with specialized probing and software that allows them to be fully functional gear measuring centers.
The Role of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T) and How to Capitalise on its Value Proposition
This whitepaper describes the engineering standards and benefits of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T), along with the supported attributes in the PC-DMIS measurement software.
Insourcing Quality Control
Managing continuous quality improvement is a challenge facing many manufacturers.
Linking Barcode Technology to Quality Control
Few could have guessed that chewing gum would usher in an era of streamlined production, reduced costs, and unparalleled traceability. However, in June 1974, a 10 pack of Wrigley’s Juicy Fruit did just that as it became the first product scanned with a universal product code (UPC).
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