2019 Technology Review: Inspection/Measurement

Software Collects Measurement Data from Multiple Devices

Hexagon’s HxGN Smart Quality is an online quality data and measurement resource management software platform. It collects data from multiple manufacturing phases and provides statistical analysis, visualization and workflow management, and process optimization. It is said to structure data in a way that provides insight into production and improvements in process. The remotely accessible software enables users to manage quality requirements in real-time. It collects and stores data from any number of devices in one database. It analyzes, visualizes and reports data in dashboard format. It manages such resources as equipment and organizes operational tasks. With a customizable toolset, the platform can be tailored to specific manufacturing environments and IT infrastructure.

Augmented Reality Enables Virtual Measurement Exercise

Marposs offers guided-sequence gauging using augmented reality (AR). Marposs provides customers AR glasses that guide them through a sequence of steps and measurements to check features on a cylinder-head component using the Marposs iWave2 handheld wireless gauge and a Go/NoGo gauge. As customers progress through the sequence, they will be able to see that the measurement information is adhering to the workpiece. The company’s measurement and inspection solutions can be applied to improve manufacturing processes before, during and after machining. The company features machine tools to demonstrate tool setting, probing, machine monitoring and robotic gauging. Additionally, they offer dynamic grinding including its BLU single cable control system, bench gauging, automated machine inspection and leak testing.

Measuring Equipment Detects 3D Printing Defects

Zeiss’s optical 3D scanners, CT scanners, high-resolution X-ray microscopes and coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) detect 3D printing defects and downstream processing problems. The company’s CT scanners enable users to check the interior structure of components and identify defects or dimensional errors. Optical and X-ray systems can be used to inspect outer and interior surfaces. The company’s measuring equipment and scanners enable users to compare measurement data across all manufacturing steps. The equipment is meant to help companies quickly determine if downstream processes, such as heat treatment and removal of components from the build plate, affect a part's final dimensional characteristics.