Dimensional measuring systems are essential technology for any manufacturing operation seeking to improve their manufacturing processes. In today’s technology-driven environment, choosing the right measurement technology can require a significant investment of time and resources. Before making the decision to purchase a particular system, it is important to consider all the factors that will affect your choice.
Factors to Consider When Purchasing
1. Part Size and Shape
2. Feature Types, Sizes, and Tolerances
3. Production Volume and Mix
4. Environment and Ease of Use
5. Sensor Type
6. Budget
1. Part Size and Shape
Identifying the range of parts you will need to measure is an important first step. Confirming the size, shape, and weight of parts, as well as the lot sizes and load / unload methods will help you select a system with the right measuring range and load carrying capacity. Small two-dimensional parts will likely require a less sophisticated system than large, heavy three-dimensional parts with complex geometry. Recognizing internal geometry that may need to be measured on your parts is also of high importance to understand accessories or specialized equipment that may be needed to enable complete measurement.
2. Feature Types, Sizes, and Tolerances
Understanding tolerance requirements and identifying feature types and sizes is important for selecting the appropriate measurement system, and its sensors. The tolerances and required measurement accuracy can help you decide between a hand tool, hard gauging, manual noncontact systems, or automatic multisensor systems. A measurement device's overall accuracy should be 5 to 10 times better than the tolerance being held. It is important not to over-specify accuracy, as the “tightest” tolerance on a part may only need to be measured occasionally. More important than overall accuracy is sensor resolution. The precision of each individual sensor should match the requirements of the feature it will be used to measure.
3. Production Volume and Mix
Production volume and mix of parts is another key consideration in selecting measurement equipment. For low volume, low mix operations, a semiautomatic inspection system may be adequate. As production volumes increase, more automation or greater loading capacity may be needed to keep pace with the manufacturing volume. Special situations, such as a low or mid volume production with a high part mix, call for a more sophisticated solution. When many different parts need to be measured, systems that can be set up quickly to accommodate different parts and tooling are ideal. Some measurement systems have the ability to be programmed using a part’s CAD file, minimizing the time needed to reprogram when a new part enters production.
4. Environment and Ease of Use
When choosing a system for your measurement needs it is also important to consider the environment where the system will be located. Some systems do not perform well under shop-floor conditions such as vibration and excess ambient lighting, while others are designed for use in harsh environments without diminished performance.
When searching for a system for a shop floor setting, take a look at the system mechanics. Characteristics such as large bearings, carefully machined ways, rugged support structures, and robust drive components ensure reliable performance.
Ease of use is a vital consideration as well. A high performance system that is difficult to use all too often becomes underutilized. A trade-off is often made between performance and ease ofuse. Some high performance measuring systems require considerable experience and skill to program, but can be set up with simplified operator interfaces that make routine operation easy.
5. Sensor Type
Selecting a sensor type depends on the characteristics of the part materials and nature of the features being measured. Some measurements can be made entirely using optics, while others require an additional sensor to reach areas that are difficult to image. Other applications may require a multitude of sensors to handle all the required dimensions. Sensor selection is a complex topic that is best addressed with the advice of experienced applications engineers. The key characteristic to look for in a measuring system is whether the system and its software can support the range of sensors that may be needed to fully characterize your parts.
6. Budget
Purchasing any dimensional measuring system requires a significant initial investment, and often involves substantial operating costs as well. Working with a metrology expert to determine your specific application needs and recommend a budget is the best way to decide which system is best for you. Local OGP representatives are metrology experts with the experience and knowhow to help determine the most cost effective measurement equipment and tooling for your operations. Local support ensures that your system will be implemented quickly and assistance with program setup and operator training is available onsite.
