September 2024 Metrology News Magazine
Editors Message:
The recent IMTS exhibition in Chicago showcased a significant evolution in manufacturing technologies, and one of the undeniable themes was the role of advanced metrology in driving the future of production. As we reflect on the innovations and new product introductions presented at this year’s event, it becomes increasingly clear that metrology is not just an accessory in manufacturing, but rather a cornerstone that will shape the next generation of production capabilities.
Manufacturing has always been about precision. However, as the demands for higher quality, faster production, and reduced waste intensify, the need for metrology solutions that can keep pace with these requirements has become more critical than ever. What stood out at IMTS 2024 is how metrology technologies are evolving to address the challenges of advanced manufacturing, integrating seamlessly into smart factories, and enabling unprecedented levels of accuracy, efficiency, and automation.
Traditionally, metrology technology has focused on measurement, providing manufacturers with the tools to ensure parts and products meet stringent specifications. Today, however, metrology is transitioning from simply being about precise measurements to becoming a driver of manufacturing intelligence. It is no longer just about verifying a part’s dimensions; it is about embedding metrological data into the entire production process to enable real-time decision-making.
At IMTS, we saw innovations in digital metrology platforms that leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning to process vast amounts of data. These systems don’t just collect data, they analyze it, providing actionable insights that can prevent defects, optimize processes, and even predict maintenance needs. By integrating metrology into the production line in this way, manufacturers can achieve both predictive and prescriptive analytics, moving towards a fully connected and intelligent manufacturing ecosystem.
Another major trend witnessed at IMTS was the growing prevalence of in-line and automated metrology solutions. In high-volume production environments, stopping the production line or taking product off-line for manual inspections is no longer viable. The latest metrology technologies allow for real-time, non-contact measurements directly on the production floor, ensuring that quality control is maintained without sacrificing productivity. This evolution is especially relevant as manufacturers adopt Industry 4.0 principles. With in-line metrology, measurement becomes a continuous and integral part of the manufacturing process, rather than a separate, post-production step. Robots equipped with advanced sensors, 3D scanning technology, and optical systems were prominent at the exhibition, showing how automation and metrology are converging to eliminate bottlenecks and create more flexible, adaptable production lines.
Ultimately, the advancements in metrology technology exhibited at IMTS point to a future where data and connectivity will be key drivers of manufacturing success. The integration of metrology with the Industrial Internet of Things, AI, and machine learning promises to create a future where production is more agile, efficient, and reliable than ever before.
As we look ahead, one thing is certain: metrology will continue to play a central role in enabling the smart factories of the future. The innovations unveiled at IMTS show that metrology is not just keeping pace with the demands of next-generation manufacturing – it’s driving it forward.
As usual, I welcome your comments, news, and views – my inbox is always open.
Access the full library of September Metrology News articles by clicking here.
Keith Mills – Publishing Editor
Metrology Mentor Automates CMM Program Creation
Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division, a global leader in digital reality solutions, combining sensor, software and autonomous technologies, has unveiled Metrology Mentor for the first time globally at the IMTS exhibition. Metrology Mentor is revolutionary new SaaS application that automates the creation of CMM measurement programs … read more
Machine Tool Probing Suite Drives In-Process Inspection
Verisurf Software has announced the release of its new Machine Tool Probing (MTP) suite, designed to support in-process inspection directly on machine tools. As the only CAD/CAM-based metrology software on the market, Verisurf continues to build on its heritage of intelligent Model-Based Definition (MBD) with new features, enhancements, and optimized workflows for inspection … read more
IMTS 2024 Perspective – The Centric Role of Metrology
Attending the 2024 edition of the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) in Chicago last week highlighted the convergence of cutting-edge technologies, robot automation, and the essential role played by metrology in the next generation of manufacturing. As one of the largest trade shows in the world, IMTS continues to set the stage for the future of manufacturing … read more
SmartScope M-Series 3D Multisensor Systems Launched
Optical Gaging Products (OGP, a world-leading manufacturer of optical and precision multisensor metrology systems for industrial quality control, has announced the next evolution of SmartScope 3D Multisensor Metrology systems. The new SmartScope M-Series is offered in two benchtop and two floor model versions to handle nearly any sized part … read more
Advanced Benchtop Stylus Profilometer Introduced
Bruker Corporation has announced the release of the Dektak Pro stylus profilometer, the next-generation profiler in the industry-leading Dektak product line. Incorporating over 55 years of innovation, the new benchtop system provides an expanded measurement area up to 200 mm of full-sample access for semiconductor applications, as well as a shortened time to reults … read more
Streamlining Manufacturing Quality and Assembly Processes With High-Accuracy Measurements
Combining laser tracking with laser radar functionality, the Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division’s Leica Absolute Tracker ATS800 brings traditional reflector-tracking accuracy to non-contact large-part measurement – sufficient to perform detailed feature and edge inspections and meet tight assembly tolerances from tens of meters away … read more
New All-In-One ‘In-Machine’ Tool Presetter Incorporates Tool Microscope and Visual Inspector
The new VT 122 measuring camera with the VTC software from Heidenhain performs three roles in a single system, providing an all-in-one tool presetter, tool microscope and visual inspector. Instead of taking tools to the metrology laboratory, users can inspect tool edges using images taken inside the machine tool envelope providing the data needed for holistic tool analysis … read more
Wireless Multi-Functional Handheld 3D Laser Scanner Launched
SHINING 3D has launched its FreeScan UE Pro2, an innovative wireless multi-functional laser handheld 3D scanner. Ideal for on-site inspections and versatile applications, FreeScan UE Pro2 sets a new standard in portable 3D metrology world according to the company. FreeScan UE Pro2 features an innovative integrated Wireless Module for more flexibility and mobility … read more
Artec Point 3D Scanner Targets Industrial Metrology
Global 3D scanning hardware and software company Artec 3D has unveiled its first target-based laser scanner as part of plans to expand further into industrial metrology. While Artec 3D scanners already offer rapid, accurate, precise data capture to users across industries, the company has now introduced a dedicated metrology solution. Accurate down to hundredths of a millimeter … read more
Optical CMM Brings Affordable High-Speed Measurement
Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division has announced the launch of VISIUS, an intuitive optical coordinate measuring solution designed to address the evolving needs of modern manufacturers. VISIUS combines precision, versatility and ease of use in a single, affordable package, empowering businesses to achieve new levels of efficiency and quality. With this cost-efficient, all-in-one system … read more
3D Scanning Sensor With Large Field of View Launched
Automation Technology is expanding its cost-efficient ECS series with the new ECS 4090 3D sensor, which has been specially developed for applications in the food and logistics industries as well as for robot vision. The ECS 4090 impresses with its significantly larger field of view of either 284 mm, 575 mm or 1020 mm (available soon), making it ideal for a wide range of applications … read more
Laser Radar Aligns With New VDA Metrology Standards
Nikon Metrology, a supplier of traceable shop floor metrology, has welcomed the recent comprehensive update to Volume 5.1 of the automotive measurement standards issued by the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA). The newly updated VDA standards cover a more comprehensive array of measurement applications within the automotive sector … read more
Should a CMM Be Replaced With a Measuring Robot?
Deciding whether to replace a Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) with a robotic measurement system can be challenging. To make an informed choice, it’s essential to understand the unique strengths and limitations of each technology. CMMs are the gold standard for precision measurement, especially in industries where every micron counts … read more
API Launch ProGage Scanning and Inspection Portable Arm Range
Automated Precision Inc (API) has announced the launch of a ProGage range of portable arms. The API ProGAGE Scanning and Inspection Arms are designed with advanced materials, ensuring a lightweight and portable coordinate measuring machine (CMM) that is both reliable and efficient. These versatile arms are essential for quality control, part inspection, reverse engineering … read more
Revopoint Launches Low-Cost Metrology-Grade Photogrammetric System
Revopoint has released what it claims to be the world’s first low-cost metrology-grade photogrammetric system. The powerful system consists of the MIRACO Plus 3D Scanner with a Photogrammetric Metrology Kit, offering high-accuracy 3D measurements for a diverse array of objects. The photogrammetric system, global coordinate calculation, and point cloud scanning … read more
Quality as The Cornerstone of Manufacturing Excellence
In today’s advanced manufacturing landscape, quality management has evolved into a cornerstone of industrial success. Imagine an employee effortlessly accessing real-time quality data from production line sensors with just a few swipes on a handheld device. This seamless blend of cutting-edge technology and skilled human intervention is the hallmark of next-generation quality management … read more
Absolute Measurement Solution Transforms In-Line Measurement
As the automotive industry undergoes a transformative shift towards electric vehicles the complexity of critical components and the necessity for production efficiency have never been greater. Mapvision dedication lies in consistently deliver parts of exceptional quality. Its Absolute Measurement solution transforms in-line measurement, ensuring unparalleled accuracy … read more
Revolutionizing Manufacturing Quality Control With Augmented Reality
The rapid evolution of technology has been a significant driver in transforming industries across the globe, and manufacturing is no exception. Among the technological innovations making waves in the manufacturing sector, Augmented Reality stands out as a groundbreaking tool, particularly in the realm of quality control to meet ever-growing demands for precision and efficiency … read more
OGP Announces Shapegrabber Automated 3D Laser Scanning System Enhancements
Optical Gaging Products (OGP), a world-leading manufacturer of optical and precision metrology systems for industrial quality control, has announced all-new SG SmartCapture Software, leading a variety of enhancements to its ShapeGrabber family of automated 3D laser scanning systems. SG SmartCapture offers both advanced features and ease of use functionality to ShapeGrabber … read more
Vision Engineering Launch More Affordable and Simplified Optical Measurement Systems
Vision Engineering, manufacturer of ergonomic microscopes and measuring systems, has announced a new low cost entry point for its patented optical stereo microscope technology with the global launch of OPTA which redefines the entry point for users to benefit from Vision Engineering’s exceptional image quality, ergonomic design and ease of use … read more
Haas Automation Debuts Its First Coordinate Measuring Machine at IMTS
Haas Automation exhibited its first coordinate measuring machine, the HMM430, at the recent IMTS exhibition in Chicago. The HMM430 brings professional-grade inspection to the production machine shop. The machine is perfect for small- to medium-sized shops looking for their first entry into the world of CMM inspection. The Hass CMM can streamline quality control … read more
The Evolution of Sensors and their Migration to the Multi-Sensor CMM
The Role of Sensors in Metrology In the world of metrology, precision is paramount. The accuracy of measurements directly impacts the quality and performance of manufactured components, making metrology a cornerstone of manufacturing industry. Over the years, advancements in sensor technology have significantly transformed the landscape of metrology, enabling higher precision … read more
The Importance of Quality In Manufacturing
Simply put, without quality, there is no distinction. Premium car designers know this and so will opt to source higher-quality components to use in their vehicles, with the aim of delivering an elevated driving experience to their end customer. In this article, Claire Lloyd, quality manager at Vestatec, shares her top tips for maintaining quality throughout the manufacturing process … read more
Advancements in Industrial Computed Tomography and Metrology
Recent years have seen substantial advancements in industrial computed tomography (CT), particularly in speed, automation, and accuracy. These improvements have expanded the application of CT beyond traditional research, development, and failure analysis, establishing it as a crucial technology for precise three-dimensional measurements on production floors … read more
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