The following articles and related links are from CMSC contributors to CMSC World.
| Automated Laser Rail for ADM Calibration Calibrating an absolute distance meter (ADM) laser tracker requires long linear distances. For such distances, the room temperature is a significant factor. Even though the calibration room’s temperature is controlled within ± 2° C, actual temperature and temperature variation in one end of the room can be different from another because of uneven airflow in the room. David L. Linville, Yongwoo Park, Nay Lin, Yuanqun Lin, "Automated Laser Rail for ADM Calibration," CMSC World, May 23, 2019 |
| Experimental Uncertainty Analysis for NDT on the CSX Wilbur Bridge A 154-page report by Moreu and LaFave in 2012 explains unique problems railroad bridge engineers must contend with. The gross weight of cars went from 200,000 pounds to 263,000 pounds in the 1970s, and to 286,000 pounds in 1991. The ratio of live to dead loads are much greater for railroads than highways. Dynamic forces due to such things as wheel hunting, rock and roll, locomotive tractive forces, and braking make it very desirable to measure motions in all three directions (i.e., longitudinal, transverse, and vertical directions), which is why a survey of railroad bridge engineers ranked measuring 3D deflections under live loads as the top research interest. David H. Parker, "Experimental Uncertainty Analysis for NDT on the CSX Wilbur Bridge," CMSC World, April 23, 2019 |
| Enhancing the Accuracy and Productivity of Super-Precision Turning Machining Centers Modern super-precision turning centers must provide accuracy in the lower range of diamond-turning machines (cylindricity of less than 1–2 ?m) and high productivity. Traditionally, diamond-turning machines have not been able to provide this because of their design limitations. However, high accuracy can be achieved if compensation of error is computed based on feedback from the results of measuring part dimensions and profiles. E. Kushnir, R. Karadayi, W. Clark, A. C. Affer, A. Naga, "Enhancing the Accuracy and Productivity of Super-Precision Turning Machining Centers," CMSC World, December 13, 2018 |
| Roles and Responsibilities of NIST in the Development of Documentary Standards The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is a nonregulatory federal agency of the Department of Commerce and is the national metrology institute of the United States. NIST’s role in the development of voluntary consensus standards (VCS) is rooted in many policy decisions and government directives that happened during the 1980s and 1990s. NIST has been a leader in the development of many standards, including documentary standards, ever since its founding in 1901. Prem Rachakonda, Bala Muralikrishnan, Daniel Sawyer, "Roles and Responsibilities of NIST in the Development of Documentary Standards," CMSC World, October 4, 2018 |
| How Accurate Can a Laser Tracker Be? Laser trackers are widely used for metrology and precision surveys. Depending on the approach, range, and instrument itself, the measurement accuracy can vary from millimeter to micron. Several applications of laser trackers used in the National Synchrotron Light Source II (NSLS-II) project will be explained in this article to show examples of using laser trackers to achieve very high accuracy. C. Yu, F. Karl, M. Ilardo, M. Ke, S. Sharma, "How Accurate Can a Laser Tracker Be?," CMSC World, May 16, 2018 |
| Point Cloud Measurements on a CMM Artifact Using a Laser Scanner Tight-tolerance part inspection, whether for industrial applications or national laboratory requirements, is generally performed using cartesian coordinate measuring machines (CMMs). High-data density measurement sets to characterize part geometries are achieved using tactile probing or dynamic scanning to ensure high-quality part inspection. Requirements such as high accuracy and high data density limit the class of measurement instrument that can produce the necessary and satisfactory results. High-accuracy measurements are limited to hard probing with low-data density, while high-data density may require an optical alternative with lower accuracy in the resulting measurement data. The question becomes: Is there an alternative technology which can yield a combination of these two sought-after qualities? Lucas M. Valdez, Mario O. Valdez, Joshua D. Montano, Ivan S. Trujillo, "Point Cloud Measurements on a CMM Artifact Using a Laser Scanner," CMSC World, March 28, 2018 |
| Developing the Light-Controlled Factory The light-controlled factory (LCF) is a UK development project running for five years, from July 2013 to July 2018. It is directed by the University of Bath and supported by University College London (UCL) and Loughborough University. This ambitious project aims to demonstrate a “ubiquitous” seven-dimensional (7D) measurement environment across the factory space and integrated with the production and assembly processes. UCL’s contribution to this will be a multi-camera system which can track and align multiple manufactured components across this large manufacturing environment. Stuart Robson, Stephen Kyle, Jan Boehm, Ben Sargeant, Mark Shortis, Patrick Keogh, Glen Mullineux, Jody Muelaner, David Ross-Pinnock, Jonathan M. Huntley, Harshana G. Dantanarayana, "Developing the Light-Controlled Factory," CMSC World, November 15, 2017 |
| Using Electronic Distance Measurement Instruments in NDT and Structural Health-Monitoring Applications Electronic distance measurement (EDM) instruments, such as laser trackers, total stations, and handheld laser distance meters, have been used in a limited number of nondestructive testing (NDT) and structural health monitoring (SHM) applications attempting to measure bridge deflections and vibrations. However, a survey of the literature reveals that, by far, most attempts have been by measuring elevation angles with robotic total stations. David H. Parker, "Using Electronic Distance Measurement Instruments in NDT and Structural Health-Monitoring Applications," CMSC World, August 16, 2017 |
| Testing Proposal for An Optically Tracked CMM in a Pre-Normative Context Recent interest in portable coordinate measuring systems (CMS) has attracted the attention of industrial users and the technical community at large. Articulated arm coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) and optically tracked CMM (OTCMM) systems have emerged from being “nice-to-have” to “must-have” 3D equipment on the shop floor. Jean-Angelo Beraldin, David MacKinnon, Luc Cournoyer, "Testing Proposal for An Optically Tracked CMM in a Pre-Normative Context," CMSC World, May 17, 2017 |
| Industrial Automated Laser Radar Application Within Large-Volume Metrology Measurement-assisted assembly has been integrated into the production flow in recent years. Many processes are designed for a high repeatability through fixtures and maximum stiffness. They approach an optimal operating point through iterative processes using measurements. This approach permits the control of complex systems within the expected flexibility. However, the databases and the reactivity become small with a larger number of variants, which makes an economical operation more difficult. Thanks to the metrological support, measurement coverage rises and the results may be applied intelligently based on the current state of the component. Latency effects when using a separate unit like a metrology room diminish by using metrology closer to the process via large-volume metrology (LVM). Nikon Metrology’s laser radar is integrated based on the experiences gained through the course of preceding projects and current demands of automobile construction. Alexander Schönberg, Mike Wehn, Alexander Richter, "Industrial Automated Laser Radar Application Within Large-Volume Metrology," CMSC World, February 15, 2017 |
| The Dangers of Polygonization The advancement of dimensional scanning technology has allowed massive amount of point cloud data to be obtained quickly. This data is used for analysis and reverse-engineering functions. Generally, once this data is collected, it will be polygonized into a mesh which allows for easier data analysis and noise reduction. However, polygonizing can potentially alter the true representation of the data. The amount of alteration can be significant if you are trying to understand the true characteristics of the part you are measuring. This article will discuss some of the pitfalls that come with polygonization of scanned data. Ben Rennison, Chris Greer, "The Dangers of Polygonization," CMSC World, November 17, 2016 |
| Blue Light Laser Sensor Integration and Point Cloud Metrology Dimensional measurement has been used as a part of manufacturing systems for many years. However, although shop floor measurement equipment can be used next to a manufacturing machine and its measurement data can be digitally interfaced to change some manufacturing parameters, machine tools themselves are also being utilized to do more and more of the dimensional measurement tasks. Ray Karadayi, "Blue Light Laser Sensor Integration and Point Cloud Metrology," CMSC World, August 18, 2016 |
| Measurement, Control, and Minimization of Thermal Shift in Superconducting Devices Superconducting (SC) magnetic and SC radiofrequency (SRF) devices designed for use in particle accelerators present challenging alignment problems. These devices are assembled and aligned at room temperature but operate at 2 Kelvin (K) to 4 Kelvin (K), with thermal offsets being large relative to the desired alignment tolerances. Unique solutions have been developed for controlling and minimizing the thermal shift, including utilization of materials that expand under cooling to compensate for contraction and kinematic couplings. Measurement of the thermal shift within SC devices is performed using both optical telescope and laser instruments, typically through a parallel plate vacuum glass window. This article presents techniques developed at Argonne National Laboratory for measuring, controlling, and minimizing thermal shift in SC devices at both the Advanced Photon Source (APS) and the Argonne Tandem Linear Accelerator System (ATLAS). William G. Jansma, Charles L. Doose, Joel D. Fuerst, Yury Ivanyushenkov, Matthew T. Kasa, Jaromir M. Penicka, Emil M. Traktenberg, Scott N. Wesling, Zachary A. Conway, Sang-Hoon Kim, Peter N. Ostroumov, "Measurement, Control, and Minimization of Thermal Shift in Superconducting Devices," CMSC World, May 19, 2016 |
| A Novel Coordinate Measurement System Based on Frequency Scanning Interferometry In this article, we present a wide angle, frequency scanning interferometer (FSI) system capable of measuring the absolute distance to multiple targets simultaneously. A spatial light modulator has been integrated into the FSI sensor head, projecting multiple beams towards targets. Absolute distance measurements of up to 6.8-m range have been achieved with high signal-to-noise values. Design of the optical system has allowed targets with angular range of ± 55? off-axis to be measured. So far up to 10 targets have been measured simultaneously at distances ranging from 1.5 m to 6.8 m, and at off-axis angles of ±30?. For increased practicality and usability a stereo vision system with target detection software has been developed and integrated allowing tracking of multiple targets over the measurement volume. Mike Campbell, Ben Hughes, Dan Veal, "A Novel Coordinate Measurement System Based on Frequency Scanning Interferometry," CMSC World, February 18, 2016 |
| Integrated Composite Parts Thickness Measurements in Aerospace Manufacturing and Assembly In aerospace vehicle manufacturing and assembly, including that at Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems, measurements of composite part thickness are required for ensuring that underlying processes are within tolerance, and for achieving outer-mold line-control surface requirements. Ken Vakil, "Integrated Composite Parts Thickness Measurements in Aerospace Manufacturing and Assembly," CMSC World, November 12, 2015 |
| A Rigid Borescopic Fringe Projection System for 3D Measurement The inspection and characterization of machine parts is still subject to research. Although optical means of measurement are very promising in respect to speed and precision, they are still not capable of measuring difficult-to-reach inner geometries. In this article, we will demonstrate our development of a borescope-based fringe-projection system that is capable of fast and precise geometry acquisition. The system features a small measurement head that is capable of measuring areas with limited available space. Jochen Schlobohm, Andreas Pösch, Eduard Reithmeier, "A Rigid Borescopic Fringe Projection System for 3D Measurement," CMSC World, August 13, 2015 |
| Monte Carlo Method for Uncertainty Propagation in JWST Metrology Databases Large-volume metrology measurements are conducted at every major phase of alignment and integration of the Integrated Science Instrument Module (ISIM), which forms the main payload of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC). Both ambient and cryogenic metrology measurements are used to verify that ISIM and ground support equipment (GSE) conform to the predicted position and orientation at various integration and alignment states. Joseph Hayden, Manal Khreishi, Theodore Hadjimichael, Raymond Ohl, "Monte Carlo Method for Uncertainty Propagation in JWST Metrology Databases," CMSC World, May 21, 2015 |
| Efficient Development of Human Machine Interface for a 3D Measurement System In the manufacturing industry, it is ideal to ensure high manufacturing accuracy without the need for inspection. In fact, however, the inspection and the measurement processes are performed for various reasons, such as to secure the product traceability, to visualize the quality of production, and to uncover an aging manufacturing system at an early stage. Masashi Sato, "Efficient Development of Human Machine Interface for a 3D Measurement System," CMSC World, February 12, 2015 |
| Structure-From-Motion Systems for Scene Measurement The reconstruction of scenes from multiple images or video streams has become an essential component in many modern applications. Many fields, including robotics, surveillance, and virtual reality, employ systems to reconstruct a 3D representation of an environment in order to accomplish specific goals. Shawn Recker, Mikhail M. Shashkov, Mauricio Hess-Flores, Christiaan Gribble, Rob Baltrusch, Mark A. Butkiewicz, Kenneth I. Joy, "Structure-From-Motion Systems for Scene Measurement," CMSC World, November 13, 2014 |
| Measurement Performance and Comparison Using Optical Vision Systems The use of optical 3D shape measurement devices are rapidly gaining importance, allowing the reconstruction of real 3D objects efficiently. The 3D shape and texture can be obtained from stereo images acquired with a freely moving camera. This approach measures the image displacement from the corresponding feature points in stereo images of the same scene, taken from different views. Although the camera parameters can be estimated from stereo images sequences, the accuracy can be improved using a calibrated camera. Rogério Yugo Takimoto, Marcos de Sales Guerra Tsuzuki, Toshiyuki Gotoh, Seiichiro Kagei, "Measurement Performance and Comparison Using Optical Vision Systems," CMSC World, August 21, 2014 |
| Dual T-Mac Performance on a Large NC Machine This article estimates the uncertainty for measuring a tool tip using dual Leica T-Mac sensors set up on opposite sides of an NC machine head and measured with tracking interferometers at opposite ends of a machine bed. Performance testing compares the estimated and measured uncertainties and comments on the nature of the setup. John Palmateer, "Dual T-Mac Performance on a Large NC Machine," CMSC World, February 20, 2014 |
| Survey of the NOvA Detectors at Fermilab The NOvA (NuMI off-axis ?e appearance) experiment is looking to answer fundamental questions about neutrinos and the role they play in the universe. NOvA will use two detectors, a near detector located underground at Fermilab in Batavia, Illinois, and a far detector located 810 km from Fermilab near the United States-Canada border in Ash River, Minnesota. Babatunde O’Sheg Oshinowo, Horst Friedsam, "Survey of the NOvA Detectors at Fermilab," CMSC World, November 7, 2013 |
| Usability Engineering: When the Surface Becomes the Touchscreen This article is about how augmented reality (AR) techniques can change the way we use measurement equipment. Three applications are presented to demonstrate how much easier, faster, and more intuitive an inspection task gets through gesture control (GC) and presenting information on the inspected surface. Erik Klaas, Arun Chhabra, Pia Böttcher, "Usability Engineering: When the Surface Becomes the Touchscreen," CMSC World, August 14, 2013 |
| Measurement Accuracy of a Mirrored Surface Using a Laser Tracker Laser trackers and the software that control them have revolutionized the way metrology data has been taken over the last 20 years. With software and hardware advances, taking measurements has become more efficient and accurate. Robert P. Elliott, "Measurement Accuracy of a Mirrored Surface Using a Laser Tracker," CMSC World, May 10, 2013 |
| Comparing Equivalent Point Cloud Data From Contact and Noncontact Measurement Techniques To demonstrate that a typical spacecraft reflector is designed and manufactured according to specifications and caters to postulated performances, a detailed testing and verification campaign must be conducted. 3D metrology plays an important role in this process. Pravesh Mathur, "Comparing Equivalent Point Cloud Data From Contact and Noncontact Measurement Techniques," CMSC World, February 11, 2013 |
| High-Resolution 3D Capture of High-Speed Objects TetraVue, a provider of 3D and optics solutions, is developing an alternative approach to flash laser detection and ranging (LADAR) that can record simultaneous intensity and range maps using standard, charge-coupled device (CCD) and complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) sensor arrays. This enables 3D imaging with megapixel-class, high-frame-rate sensors. The resulting 3D camera can be used in the same fashion as 2D camcorders, but it records the geometry and texture of all objects in the scene at frame rates of 1,000 fps and beyond. Testing has verified millimeter-class range resolution using a 2 megapixel (Mpx) sensor for objects moving at speeds up to 20 m/s (such as an operating floor fan). This testing illustrates the new kinds of applications that can benefit from 3D video capability, such as monitoring and measuring operating equipment and machinery, or detailed measurement of all aspects of high-speed events such as impacts. Paul S. Banks, "High-Resolution 3D Capture of High-Speed Objects," CMSC World, November 1, 2012 |
| Using Laser Radar to Improve Production in Pipe Spool Fabrication The main plant of Hitachi Engineering and Services (HES) has produced pipe spools for large-scale plants. These pipe spools have complicated shapes and are made by various types of materials. In the process of these pipe spools fabrication, high accuracy and high throughput are required. Especially the bending process, assembling process, and the welding process are required skilled workers who have many experiences and know-how because of the particularity of these fabrication processes and have difficulties to be automated. Masashi Sato, Hironori Kojima, "Using Laser Radar to Improve Production in Pipe Spool Fabrication," CMSC World, August 15, 2012 |
| Using Measurement and Software to Optimize Part Setup for Machining Aircraft manufacturing is international, with a complex supply chain dividing work among numerous companies around the world. Globalized manufacturing and outsourcing brings challenges and opportunities for suppliers. Technical challenges include improving the quality of complex components with multistage manufacturing operations. Components must be highly accurate due to considerations of weight and assembly efficiency. Competitive pressures require companies to be flexible with a fast response to customer needs, which often means increasing production but at reduced costs. Costs of material and machining—and the time required to remove excess material—are powerful incentives to minimize stock allowances for machining. Lead times are an important consideration in the overall costs. This combination of challenges presents lucrative opportunities for suppliers that can meet the conflicting stringent requirements quickly and consistently. Philip Hewitt, "Using Measurement and Software to Optimize Part Setup for Machining," CMSC World, February 17, 2012 |
| Applying Measurement Data to Engineering Process Improvement Manufacturers face many obstacles across the life cycle of delivering a product to market. Many of these problems are the result of an unclear definition of product and process requirements and an under-utilization of existing measurement data. The case has never been greater for manufacturers to have a well-defined dimensional engineering (DE) process that enables the collection and analysis of relevant, meaningful variation measurements at every stage, from design through production. Donald Jasurda, "Applying Measurement Data to Engineering Process Improvement," CMSC World, November 7, 2011 |
| Automating Data Analysis and Report Generation of Key Characteristics Measurements The purpose of this article is to discuss automated analysis and report generation of key characteristics measurement data. Key characteristics (KCs) are those features of a part whose measurements must be kept to the nominal values through process control to minimize the "Taguchi Loss." KC measurements are taken using different types of metrology heads, such as laser trackers or other types of scanners. The actual process discussed in this article requires gathering KC data using laser trackers. The metrology data are imported into software to compare the actual values with their nominal values. Thereafter, the data go through several file format transformations before the reports are created in the format required by the customer. Ken Vakil, "Automating Data Analysis and Report Generation of Key Characteristics Measurements," CMSC World, August 22, 2011 |
| Challenges of Neutron Guide Alignment at the NIST Center for Neutron Research The National Institute of Standards and Technology's (NIST) Center for Neutron Research is expanding the number of beamlines for research purposes from seven to 11 beams. The metrology tasks required to perform the installation of the new beamlines include the design and installation of a high-accuracy control network throughout the area affected by the new beamlines, the measurement and fiducialization of 145 new glass guide segments, the alignment of each glass guide segment in its vacuum vessel, and the positioning of the all the vacuum vessels within three distinct areas of the facility. Ray Ryan, "Challenges of Neutron Guide Alignment at the NIST Center for Neutron Research," CMSC World, August 22, 2011 |
| Training for Portable Coordinate Measurement and Large-Volume Metrology The need for learning and certification of knowledge in portable coordinate measurement and large-volume metrology has been recognized by professional organizations such as the Coordinate Metrology Society (CMS) and major industrial end users. During the past year, the United Kingdom’s national measurement institute—the National Physical Laboratory (NPL)—has been developing a training program in portable coordinate measurement to complement their existing training in dimensional metrology, which is designed for four levels of expertise. A program of courses for entry Level 1 is now operational. Level 2 is currently in draft form and outlines have been proposed for Levels 3 and 4. Stephen Kyle, Keith Bevan, "Training for Portable Coordinate Measurement and Large-Volume Metrology," CMSC World, June 15, 2011 |
| Implementation of the Quality Assurance Matrix and Methodology The purpose of this article is to present the planning of a case study performed in the field of geometrical and dimensional measurement and controllability planning (GMCP, previously abbreviated GICP). The case study is carried out at the Swedish automotive company Scania CV. This article presents the preparation of the planned implementation work of the quality assurance matrix and methodology (QAM). The QAM methodology is described and will later be implemented, evaluated, and verified. Richard Lindqvist, Lars Mattsson, Niclas Josefsson, Jarno Salmela, "Implementation of the Quality Assurance Matrix and Methodology," CMSC World, February 10, 2011 |
| The State of 3D Imaging Standards Now is the time to consider all possibilities and get involved in the creation of standards that will define how we evaluate existing and future imaging technologies. This article explores the complexities in defining a standard or set of standards for short-range 3D imaging and scanning systems. It starts with a review of different scanning methods and characteristics and continues with a discussion of proposed test methods and evaluation criteria. Chuck Pfeffer, "The State of 3D Imaging Standards," CMSC World, November 9, 2010 |
| 3D Point Cloud Processing for Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul The acronym MRO (maintenance, repair and overhaul) has long been part of the aerospace vernacular. But only recently have service providers adopted automated tools to streamline the upfront process of capturing and digitally reconstructing physical parts that require repairs or redesign. The central issues surrounding MRO—speed of repair, accuracy, reliability and quality—are relevant worldwide. In the United States, it is a central issue with adherence to FAA parts manufacturer approval (PMA); similar certification processes are in place throughout Europe and Asia. In all cases, the combination of market demand and certification make MRO a prime application for 3D point-cloud processing. Alberto Griffa, "3D Point Cloud Processing for Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul, |
| Study: Comparison Between Photogrammetry and Laser Radar At the Harris Corp. (Government Communications Systems Division—GCSD), solid carbon-fiber and aluminum-shaped reflector dishes are manufactured to support military ground, sea, and air communications. These reflectors range in size from 1 to 13 m. To meet performance requirements, the surface profile of these reflectors are held to rigid tolerances. For 25 years, photogrammetry has been the Harris standard for characterizing the surface profile of these reflectors due to the technology’s high accuracy, portability, and ability to work in unstable conditions. The technique has been “tried and true” and is familiar to engineering and quality organizations. Randy Fratena, Charles Mitchell, "Study: Comparison Between Photogrammetry and Laser Radar," CMSC World, September 3, 2010 |
| Reconstruction of a 19th Century Plaster Piece Mold and Recreation of a Casting It was determined that 3D imaging would be a feasible alternative to the traditional methods of molding and casting, given the fact that current 3D methods are noncontact, and may only require minimal handling of an object. The Museum Conservation Institute (MCI), located in Suitland, Maryland, has a portable structured-light scanner that can safely produce precise, high-resolution spatial data, as well as color information, from collection objects. The collaboration with the Northeastern Maryland-based, Survice Metrology, brought engineering and data processing expertise to the project for the cast recreation. The familiar term, reverse engineering, which uses existing material to reproduce a new part, can be applied to this step of the processing of the Powers’ data. This is a common task in commercial industry, where research into a competitor’s product can involve virtual disassembly, analysis, testing, and copying. In the Powers’ case, however, fewer constraints were found. Melvin J. Wachowiak, Basiliki Vicky Karas, Robert E. Baltrusch, "Reconstruction of a 19th Century Plaster Piece Mold and Recreation of a Casting," CMSC World, May 23, 2010 |
| The Practical Approach to Volumetric Error Compensation A joint project of NCMS called Volumetric Accuracy for Large Machine Tools (VALMT), partnering Automated Precision, Boeing, Siemens and Mag Cincinnati, has pioneered an innovative process and established new methodology in volumetric error compensation for large machine tools. Volumetric error compensation, or VEC, is a true volumetric calibration that improves close tolerance and working accuracy of complex five- and six-axis machine tools throughout their entire working envelope. Dave Maxham, "The Practical Approach to Volumetric Error Compensation," CMSC World, February 22, 2010 |
| Simulation, Modeling and Development of the Metris RCA In partnership with Metris UK, in this article we will discuss the utilization of modeling and simulation methods in the development of a revolutionary 7-axis Robot CMM Arm (RCA). An offline virtual model is described, facilitating pre-emptive collision avoidance and assessment of optimal placement of the RCA relative to scan specimens. Workspace accessibility of the RCA is examined under a range of geometrical assumptions and we discuss the effects of arbitrary offsets resulting from manufacturing tolerances. Degeneracy is identified in the number of ways a given pose may be attained and it is demonstrated how a simplified model may be exploited to solve the inverse kinematics problem of finding the “correct” set of joint angles. We demonstrate how the seventh axis may be utilized to avoid obstacles or otherwise awkward poses, giving the unit greater dexterity than traditional CMMs. The results of finite element analysis and static force modeling on the RCA are presented, which provide an estimate of the forces exerted on the internal measurement arm in a range of poses. J. A. Thornby, A. Attridge, T. Johnson, R. S. MacKay, R. J. Sanders, C. Stott, M. A.Williams, K. W.Young, "Simulation, Modeling and Development of the Metris RCA," CMSC World, November 16, 2009 |
| Robotic Scanning Using a White Light Scanner This article describes a new solution for precise automated digitalization of large objects. The practical application is carried out with the help of a standard (imprecise) industrial robot, a near range on-line photogrammetric system and a 3D white-light scanner. The tracking system compensates for relatively low absolute positioning accuracy of the robot. The complete system has been successfully verified in a benchmark test for the German automobile manufacturer, AUDI. Erik Klaas, Klaus-Peter Erben, Sebastian Zinck, "Robotic Scanning Using a White Light Scanner," CMSC World, August 24, 2009 |
| Integrating Ultrasonic Data Collection and Analysis with iGPS Scanning System SURVICE Metrology was recently awarded a U.S. government research grant to improve upon the current methods used to measure and repair damage to composite materials associated with next-generation aircraft. The problem is that current ways of measuring and repairing damage (as a result of combat incidents, weather, or mishaps) is inadequate for composite structures and components, with measurements having to be collected manually. Mark T. Butkiewicz, "Integrating Ultrasonic Data Collection and Analysis with iGPS Scanning System," CMSC World, May 17, 2009 |
| Sensor Calibration and Real-time Tracking of a Backhoe Loader Using the iGPS System The Infrared GPS system (iGPS) from Metris Inc. can be used to locate and track any point in a rugged indoor environment precisely and accurately. It was used by the Systems, Controls, and Components Research division at Caterpillar Inc., to calibrate the various sensors on a 420 E-series backhoe loader (BHL), to measure the accuracy at key points, and to track the location of the BHL in real time as it performs various operations. Ananth P. Kini, Kevin King, Seong-Ho Kang, "Sensor Calibration and Real-time Tracking of a Backhoe Loader Using the iGPS System," CMSC World, February 17, 2009 |
| Automated Protection for Portable Computer-Aided Metrology Tools In just the past two years, the functionality of portable computer-aided metrology system (CAMS) in harsh factory environments has improved a great deal. A few examples of today’s improved instrumentation/measurement technology are laser trackers, digital photogrammetry systems, laser radars, accordion fringe interferometry, and a wider variety of white-light scanners. Advanced composite assembly of today’s commercial aircraft requires faster and more cost-effective quality assurance verification within the production environment. Recent discoveries, in new “merged” targeting, allows for combining the best attributes of laser trackers, photogrammetry, laser radars, and white-light scanners within the same quality controlled survey. One major setback has been the contamination of the CAMS equipment and their special targets by carbon fiber dust and general foreign object debris. Bobby J. Marsh, "Automated Protection for Portable Computer-Aided Metrology Tools," CMSC World, December 10, 2008 |
| Faster Nascar Race Cars Through Better Metrology In 2007, all three Richard Childress Racing (RCR) teams qualified for the Chase for NASCAR’s Nextel Cup. On top of this formidable accomplishment, RCR’s top race car drivers did great: Kevin Harvick won the famous Daytona 500, Jeff Burton won in Texas, and Clint Bowyer won in New Hampshire and finished third overall in the Chase. RCR addresses some of the hurdles faced in competitive NASCAR racing by applying accurate, reliable, and fast metrology. Dimensional measurement is performed in support of development enhancements that are implemented across the company’s entire race car: engine, chassis, suspension, body, etc. Using touch probe and laser sensor measurement, RCR technicians identify subtle differences in part geometry that separate race winners from the pack. Kyle McClenathen, Jim Suth, Perry Taylor, "Faster Nascar Race Cars Through Better Metrology," CMSC World, September 24, 2008 |
| DLP-Based Projected Fringe Measuring Technology Fringe projection technology, with its precision and flexibility in applications, can meet the idealized requirements of industrial manufacturing. This technology has established itself as fast industrial 3D measurement method in recent years. Advanced 3D measurement software is capable of comparing CAD data to measurement data as well as fast nominal/actual data comparison in 3D space. These 3D measurement comparisons clearly indicate deviations between nominal and actual measurements. M. Kaestner, G. Frankowski, J. Seewig, B. Crowell, J. Chambers, B. Ervin, "DLP-Based Projected Fringe Measuring Technology," CMSC World, May 21, 2008 |
| Implementing iGPS for Large-Volume Metrology in South Korean Shipbuilding Applications Today, shipbuilding technology is no longer considered “low-tech” or a mere labor-intensive, construction-type task. It is becoming a very high-tech field. In this article, we will share the vast applications within the shipbuilding industry that require large-scale metrology, and their innovative solutions with iGPS systems to maximize product quality and profitability. Sung-Ho Moon, Philip Cunliffe, "Implementing iGPS for Large-Volume Metrology in South Korean Shipbuilding Applications," CMSC World, February 20, 2008 |
