In the Media

3D quality inspection benefits from optical and contact metrology. Laser scanning has come a long way over the last few years. Fueled by advances in information technology and the continuing march toward Industry 4.0, the devices have become more accurate and more affordable, capable of gathering millions of data points much more quickly and easily. The process has become steadily more intuitive, requiring minimal training, and the software has continued to enable more functionality and improve existing processes. Compared with contact metrology, laser scanning is undoubtedly faster, more portable and capable of gathering a much greater volume of data points in a single pass. But there are unique use cases for each kind of metrology. A 2016 article on Engineering.com referred to a poll that found users of laser scanning technology valued it for accuracy, speed and portability. Other advantages include colour capture/high definition resolution, cost and ease of use.

It is strategic to dedicate the most important and delicate inspections to coordinate measuring machines (CMMs). When it comes to quality control, coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) are a top choice for measuring complex parts. However, there can be some significant cost and time factors to consider.

Metrology has come a long way since its conception during the era of the pharaohs. It has particularly evolved in the last 25 years with the advent of lasers, 3D scanners, and optical technology.

For many production managers, measuring parts directly on the production floor means fewer alignments and manipulations, which is one of the keys to more efficient production processes. However, quality control teams may be more reluctant to inspect on the shop floor and prefer to redirect measured parts to the lab, where the control will be performed on the CMM. This blog post is intended to demystify why, when, and how inspections can be performed efficiently on the production floor.