CMM Quarterly

Nikon’s Large-Envelope X-Ray CT System Installed in Hyundai Motor North America’s New Safety, Investigation Laboratory

2024-08-07T11:02:00.001-04:00

Nikon Metrology, Inc, and Hyundai Motor North America announced that Hyundai has purchased and installed Nikon’s X-ray computed tomography (CT) system. This represents a significant investment in the success of Hyundai’s newly opened $51.4 million Safety Test and Investigation Laboratory (STIL) in Superior Township, MI.

Nikon’s X-ray CT system offers a large scanning volume, multi-source flexibility, dual-detector functionality, and an extensive range of enhancements which together provides users of the system with truly exceptional inspection capabilities.

Hyundai Motor North America utilizes Nikon’s X-ray CT system in their STIL facility for important analytic processes, including nondestructive inspection of components such as air bag inflators, lock mechanisms, seat switches, struts, impellers, and additive parts.

“Having the on-site capabilities to view the inner structures and components of materials and mechanisms through the advanced Nikon X-ray CT system provides Hyundai with detailed datapoints that would otherwise take weeks to evaluate,” says Ben Michajlyszyn, director, Safety Test and Investigation Laboratory, Hyundai Motor North America.

The successful collaboration between Nikon Metrology and Hyundai Motor North America is the direct result of their mutual commitment to world-class engineering and manufacturing.

Nikon’s X-ray CT systems have been built to handle the most demanding inspection tasks in the manufacturing world, both now and in the years to come. “The multi-tube, multi-detector configuration delivers a highly flexible system capable of producing top-quality results on small, low-density components such as impellers as well as on larger, multi-material assemblies such as airbag inflators. This flexibility to do more on a single system can yield a greater ROI and the ability to adapt to Hyundai’s needs as their business and inspection requirements advance,” says Chris Peitsch, Global Sales Manager, Nikon Metrology.

Hyundai, in turn, utilizes the X-ray CT system to ensure the quality, safety, and functionality of the components that make their way into Hyundai’s award-winning automobiles. Measurement is fast, efficient, and accurate, and the nondestructive nature of the inspection is critical. Using destructive techniques on charged devices such as airbag inflators would represent potential hazards for inspectors on site at the STIL, whose mission is to increase safety for Hyundai customers and employees alike. Nikon’s X-ray CT systems are an important part of that effort, and it is representative of the valued, ongoing partnership between Hyundai and Nikon.

For more information, visit www.industry.nikon.com or www.hyundaiusa.com/.

Calypso - Point Recall with LOOP

2024-07-21T12:47:00.005-04:00

This will create a wall thickness 360° around the part top and bottom 8 points each.

To read the article click this link.

https://cmm-quarterly.squarespace.com/articles/calypso-point-recall-with-loop

Flatness - GD&T and Calypso Rev 3 Book

2024-07-17T09:59:00.001-04:00

Flatness - GD&T and Calypso Rev 3 Book — CMM QUARTERLY (squarespace.com)

This is an excerpt from the GD&T and Calypso Rev 3 Book

PURCHASE THE GDT AND CALYPSO BOOK

Flatness is a form tolerance that on the surface seems easy on a CMM. Simply scan the surface or place a series of points on the planar surface, and report out the variation, but we must understand the data and what results we are given.

Flatness (form tolerance): the tolerance zone is limited by two parallel planes a distance t apart.

Implies: Straightness of the surface or Straightness of the derived median line

On a surface plate layout, the surface must be isolated. The surface is checked to itself and therefore you can’t lay a part of the surface plate and scan the top surface. This would be parallelism. On the CMM this is acceptable since Calypso will calculate flatness based on the surface data regardless of the alignment or orientation.

In the flatness characteristic the plane is automatically changed to Minimum Feature, regardless of the Evaluation Setting. It is the Calypso default setting. This setting is seen in the selection dialog box when picking the feature in the Flatness dialog box.

The minimum zone creates a plane through the equally displaced points created by the highest point and the lowest points of the scan. Thus, the flatness graph will display the same min/max values.

The plane is moved up or down to create a plane that is equally displaced between the measured points.

Measured Plane

Minimum Feature Plane

As you can see that minimum zone, or minimum feature is susceptible to outliers. One outlier could change the flatness result drastically. It is recommended that outliers and filters be applied. As stated, before it is best to set filtering and outliers defaults using Resources/ Save Load Default.

NOTE: The flatness reported in the characteristic is different than the form value reported in the feature dialog box; this is due to the LSQ calculation of the feature itself.

2020-06-17T16:31:00.001-04:00

The current CMM Quarterly training programs on Teachable.

https://cmm-quarterly.teachable.com

Calypso Basic Training 1, 2, & 3
Calypso CAD Model Training
GD&T and Calypso
CMM Manager DCC Training 1, 2, & 3

All training come with downloadable videos and pdfs. Train at your own pace.

Using the Virtual Probe Method

2018-01-25T14:48:00.002-05:00

When calibrating a stylus tip in Calypso software it is recommended that you use Dynamic Tensor calibration at least in the initial calibration. This allows Calypso to gather the “bend data” of each individual stylus. Tensor or Geometric calibration may be used for recalibration purposes.

When using Dynamic Tensor calibration is not uncommon to receive this type of error.

This error requires you to rotate the reference sphere so that Calypso can access an unobstructed path around the reference sphere. To resolve this you may have reloaded the master probe and re-reference the sphere location. Then reloaded the stylus system and went through the entire calibration process.

Next time, try this procedure.

Creating a Set of Virtual Reference Spheres

Within the Stylus System Qualification dialog box click on the Reference Sphere Management icon.

This will open the Reference Sphere Management dialog. It is here that you will create the Virtual Reference Sphere positions. You may create as many positions as you would like. Below in Table 1 are listed the most used positions and these rotations might be a good start.

Above is your default Reference Sphere position screen. We will now add the Virtual Reference Sphere positions. To begin, click on the Copy as Virtual Reference Sphere button. This will bring up this next prompt.

Calypso will automatically select the next number for the reference sphere. Leave the number as is and click ok.

Now another reference sphere is added.

Change the Rotation Angle, in this case to 135 degrees, and Click Apply.

Let’s add another position. Click back on number 1 in the list and repeat the steps. Click on the Copy as Virtual Reference Sphere button. Name this one #3 and click ok. Highlight #3 in the list and change the rotation angle to 225.00 degrees and click Apply.

Repeat the steps until all of the positions are created.

Note: Inclination will be 135 on all examples

Ref Sphere Position Rotation

1 45

2 135

3 225

4 315

5 0

6 90

7 180

8 270

Remember all these steps where done to circumvent this error during calibration. Once you have completed the above steps it is not necessary to do them again. They will be stored for future use.

Using a Virtual Reference Sphere Position during calibration

The stylus will do a tensor calibration before this error appears.

Once this error has occurred change the Mode to Dyn. Tensor Re-qualification Mode.

Rotate the Master Sphere on the CMM table to the desired position that will allow for a dynamic calibration. It is important to just rotate around the existing position on the table. Do move it to some other location just rotate it around where it is currently located.

Open the Reference Sphere Management dialog

Now select the corresponding Virtual Reference Sphere that matches the new position on the table

Click Activate. This will now make, in this example, #3 active

You can now see that the Reference Sphere is Sphere #3

Now click on the Qualify Stylus button.

You are prompted to move the stylus and touch the stylus in the direction of the shaft.

This will now begin the dynamic tensor calibration. This is the scanning of the master ball since the tensor calibration portion was already completed prior to the error

The calibration is complete. Notice the Dynamic Qualification check mark is present and the Mode has changed back to Dynamic Tensor.

NOTE: By using the virtual sphere procedure, you first measure all styli in one position of the reference sphere and only then rotate the sphere to carry out the dynamic stylus qualification. Otherwise, you would have to re-qualify the sphere each time again.

New CMM Training forum

2017-12-28T13:49:00.003-05:00

Come join us on our CMM Training forum.

Click here to register

It's free to join. We have videos and downloadable .pdf handouts.

2016-03-15T13:38:00.000-04:00

PiWeb Reporting

Zeiss has added a new report feature that is fantastic. Calypso 6.0 now has the ability to expanding your reporting options. We will cover these options. Please note that PiWeb Reporting is only part of a larger optional reporting package PiWeb Reporting Plus.

PiWeb Reporting and Multiple Printout

After creating your CMM program you may want to add an additional report format. For example, you may currently have a company report format that contains your specific input parameters but in addition to that you may want to have a report that has the plots embedded within the report and a compressed format.

We will show you how to do that within this article.

PiWeb Reporting – Standard Format

Click on the link below to go to CMM Quarterly

How to setup the Standard Format Report in PiWeb Reporting

Free CMM Training

2015-07-18T12:43:00.000-04:00

Join us at Mark Boucher Consulting, A CMM Quarterly company, forum

It's free to join

Click here to Register

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Approves New Quality Information Framework (QIF) v 2.0 Standard

2014-12-01T13:36:00.000-05:00

New QIF™ V2.0 Standard: A Major Breakthrough for Manufacturing Quality

Provides Complete & Accurate MBD along with many other enhancements for the Metrology Industry

Burleson, Texas, USA November 23, 2014 — The (DMSC, Inc.) Dimensional Metrology Standards Consortium announced today the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) has approved QIF v 2.0 (Quality Information Framework, version 2.0) as an American National Standard. This new standard enhances the previous ANSI Standard, QIF V1.0 containing quality planning and measurement results, by providing a complete and accurate 3D product definition with semantic geometric and dimensional tolerances, definitions for measurement resources, template for measurement rules, and statistical functionality. All of this to satisfy the digital interoperability needs for a wide variety of use cases including feature-based dimensional metrology, quality measurement planning, first article inspection, and discrete quality measurement.

On December 19th, 2013, The ANSI Board of Standards Review (BSR) approved QIF v1.0 as an American National Standard. This new standard provides, quality measurement planning (QIF Plans), first article inspection (QIF Results), and discrete quality measurement.

QIF v2.0 resolves model-based metrologies primary “pain point,” which is obtaining a complete and accurate 3D product definition with semantic geometric and dimensional tolerances (QIF MBD). It provides cost effective XML exchange of product definition with various conformance levels of semantic PMI (e.g., GD&T) that satisfies many CAD to model-based metrology use cases. QIF v2.0 also provides a way to define and apply measurement resources (QIF Resources), measurement rules (QIF Rules), and statistics (QIF Statistics) towards generating and communicating feature-based measurement plans based upon a plant, department, or supplier’s measurement resources and rules defined by a company and/or by part type. QIF models include quality characteristics and measurement features as defined in the ASME Y14.5 specification and the Dimensional Measuring Interface Standard (DMIS).

ANSI approval of QIF v2.0 indicates that QIF has attained a consensus approval from a large number of subject matter experts in the digital metrology industry. (See “About DMSC” below.) The QIF standard was designed to meet the highest industry requirements and to satisfy technological gaps that have traditionally cost industry hundreds of millions of dollars annually. The DMSC has met, and continues to meet the need for urgently required national standards in quality measurement in a timely fashion. ANSI’s accredited Standards Developing Organizations (SDOs) operate in accordance with national and often international guidelines, and have been verified by government and peer review assessments.

To find more information about the QIF standards please visit the QIF website at www.qifstandards.org. To obtain your no-cost copy of the standard please send a request via email to bsquier@dmis.org.

"I am proud of our standards community and the work that we have accomplished with this new standard. This doesn’t replace DMIS (Dimensional Measurement Interface Standard) but it compliments and can harmonize with it. This new standard infrastructure is expandable to include every aspect of the Quality Information Framework, thus the name. Once adopted by the software vendors, this will allow us to properly use digital models with all the engineering requirements and quickly produce inspection and measurement plans throughout our supply chain (micro and macro), conduct inspections and measurements, then analyze and report in standard formats via AS9102 or PPAP files. This will be a huge savings throughout every manufacturing industry in our environment without any cost to the software vendor or user." said Ray Admire, DMSC Treasurer and Chairman of the Quality Measurement Standards Committee."

“Manufacturing quality digital information incompatibilities are costly and affects everyone: vendors, suppliers, users, and customers. And the digital metrology community has lacked an enterprise-wide standards solutions, UNTIL NOW, QIFv2.0, a superior standards-based digital interoperability has been ANSI approved. Furthermore the QIF enables Manufacturing Quality to join the Model-Based Enterprise next generation of doing business.” said DMSC President Curtis Brown.

About DMSC

The Dimensional Metrology Standards Consortium (DMSC, Inc.), is an ANSI Accredited Standards Developing Organization, as well as an A-Liaison to ISO TC 184/SC1. QIF has been developed and demonstrated with support from: Applied Automation Technologies, Boeing, Capvidia, DISCUS, Hexagon Metrology, Honeywell FM&T, InfinityQS, Innovalia Metrology , Inspec Software Corporation, IPI Solutions, John Deere, Kotem, Lockheed Martin, Metrology Integrators, Metrosage, Mitutoyo America, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Nikon Metrology, Origin International, PAS Technology, Pratt Whitney, PTC Solutions, Quality Vision International, Renishaw, Rolls Royce, Siemens PLM Software, Systems Insights, and Zeiss.

These are many of the same experts who continue to maintain the Dimensional Measuring Interface Standard (DMIS).

CMM Manager 3-2-1 Alignment

2014-11-22T14:11:00.000-05:00

This video is part of the CMM Manager video training series offered at CMM Quarterly Publications. This video demonstrates not only how to create a 3-2-1 Alignment but also what is happening with the degrees of freedom.

To order the CMM Manager DCC or Manual Video Training Series click here

Inspection Manager Now Supporting Automated Drawing Revision Control

2014-11-15T14:13:00.000-05:00

HIGH QA, a leading developer of 2D automated ballooning and GD&T solutions, announces the release of version 3.8 of its revolutionary Inspection Manager software featuring an automated Revision Control module.

The Revision Control module helps users avoid hours of redundant work when the quality control department receives a new revision of a drawing.

The software facilitates a smooth transition from the current drawing revision while keeping intact all balloons, dimensions, and data that have not changed from the previous version. Revision Control Wizard guides users though the drawing update process, clearly marks the differences between the old and new drawings, and helps make new revision balloon adjustments. Newly added dimensions can be automatically ballooned in just one click.

Adding the Revision Control to Inspection Manager's powerful automation capabilities, supplements a set of modules that include: automated ballooning and GD&T extraction, generation of an inspection plan, and creation of inspection reports, such as FAI, PPAP, and more.

"Our main objective is to streamline the inspection process, eliminate bottlenecks, and automate processes that traditionally have been done manually," said Sam Golan High QA Founder and Chairman. "We keep an open line of communication with our clients to receive their feedback on our products, listen to their needs and challenges, and develop solutions that target their goals. Revision Control was 'born' to help our clients keep track of changes and revisions to the original blueprint with a few clicks of a button."

As part of High QA's commitment to a high level of customer service, its loyal customers will receive the Revision Control module at no additional charge.

Adopted by clients in the aerospace, automotive, medical, and manufacturing industries, Inspection Manager has already been proven to improve efficiency, productivity, and profitability.

To learn more about Inspection Manager, join us for a free web seminar.

Please contact Shimon Azulay This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.">shimon@highqa.com with any questions or to request a private demo.

Next Generation Laser Trackers Increase Portability and Ease of Use

2014-11-12T11:29:00.001-05:00

Hexagon Metrology launches a new range of all-in-one high-speed laser trackers

Leading metrology solutions developer Hexagon Metrology today unveiled the Leica Absolute Tracker AT960, a walk-around coordinate measuring machine that fits in a single flight case. The latest model in the Leica Absolute Tracker range, the AT960 answers customer demand for a genuinely portable laser tracker with high-speed dynamics and six degrees of freedom (6DoF) capabilities.

To view the video, visit http://hexmet.us/AT960/pr

With a complete range of Leica laser tracker accessories built into the device, the AT960 measures to a Leica T-Probe, Leica T-Scan or reflector straight out of the box. Hot-swap battery function and IP54 certification for use in even the toughest workshop conditions mean the AT960 really can be taken anywhere.

Also launched today is the Leica Absolute Tracker AT930 system. With all the features and functionality of the AT960 without the 6DoF compatibility, the AT930 offers a totally transportable 3D solution with unprecedented dynamic capabilities and real-time operation.

“The new AT960 and AT930 laser trackers feature the latest electronics and optical technologies. Leveraging the recent developments of PowerLock, absolute interferometry and optical miniaturization we are able to release next generation portable products based on proven features,” explains Duncan Redgewell, General Manager, Leica metrology products. “The AT960 and AT930 replace the hugely-successful AT901 and T-Cam products and complement the basic Leica Absolute Tracker AT402. We now offer the most complete and modern range of laser trackers available on the market, giving our customers the opportunity to choose the right equipment for their specific needs.”

The Leica Absolute Tracker AT960 and the Leica Absolute Tracker AT930 are available to order immediately through your local Hexagon Metrology commercial center or distribution partner. The Leica Absolute Tracker AT960 will be shown at HxGN LIVE Local at Hexagon Metrology’s Lake Forest Solution Center (Lake Forest, CA) Wednesday, November 12, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

About Hexagon Metrology

Hexagon Metrology offers a comprehensive range of products and services for all industrial metrology applications in sectors such as automotive, aerospace, energy and medical. We support our customers with actionable measurement information along the complete life cycle of a product – from development and design to production, assembly and final inspection.

With more than 20 production facilities and 70 Precision Centers for service and demonstrations, and a network of over 100 distribution partners on five continents, we empower our customers to fully control their manufacturing processes, enhancing the quality of products and increasing efficiency in manufacturing plants around the world. For more information, visit www.hexagonmetrology.com.

The CMM Handbook Version 6

2014-11-08T14:08:00.000-05:00

CMM Quarterly Publications announces the newest version of The CMM Handbook. This version, version 6, has added an expanded GD&T section, a complete section on Profile, and more in-depth articles on CMM methodology.

Now take your CMM knowledge to a higher level with The CMM Handbook and accompanying videos. With expanded explanations and examples, this book will add to your knowledge of how the CMM is calculating your measured results.

This book is not a training manual on a specific software but an educational resource.

The CMM Handbook Version 6

Calypso - Form Datum

2014-11-08T14:06:00.000-05:00

What the Form Datum does is establish a FUNCTIONAL Datum Reference Frame coordinate system, similar to if you were setting up the primary, secondary, and tertiary datums on a functional checking gage. This is ONLY for a datum reference frame and does not modify how the base and secondary alignments evaluate their respective coordinate system. In the screen shot below, you can notice the different origin points are for a base alignment and datum reference frame.

To set the Form Datum correctly click on Extras/ Settings/ Measurement/ Form Datum, check both the Outer Tangential Element and the Re. Calculation as per ISO 5459 boxes.

What is happening?

When we create our base alignment the alignment uses the intersection point of your features as below.

This is based on the measurement of the actual features of the part.

Form Datum uses the highest contact points that would touch a Datum Feature Simulator, in order of primary, secondary, and tertiary features, establish a real coordinate system. Calypso will establish the proper location through the form datum reference calculation per ISO 5459. Again this is ONLY used for a Datum Reference Frame and does not affect the Base Alignment.

Form Datum Applied.

As you can imagine this will affect your location and true position results.

Want to learn more

Bilateral Equal Tolerance - Calypso

2014-11-07T12:48:00.002-05:00

A common question about profile is, if I take the minimum and the maximum values of my profile output they don’t add up to the profile results value. What is happening with the profile calculation?

Let’s look at one of the profile tolerance zone shapes.

Bilateral (Equal Distribution)

Let’s break down this picture above:

The black line is the Nominal Geometry.

The green line is the actual profile.

The blue lines are as designated, the upper and lower tolerance lines. Taking the blueprint tolerance and dividing that number by two, i.e. 0.10 is +/- 0.05 will assign the position of these lines.

The red lines are the actual reported profile deviation. This is where things won’t seem to add up. If my min is -0.0006 and my max is 0.0009 why is it not reported as 0.0015? Instead Calypso reports the profile as 0.0018. Calypso takes the point with the greatest deviation from the nominal geometry and doubles that result for the actual profile result.

Where A is the absolute value of either the min or the max the actual profile deviation = 2xA.

1. Find the maximum value, or the largest deviation toward the outside of the part

2. Find the minimum value, or the largest deviation toward the inside of the part

3. A = The largest absolute vale of either the min, or max

4. Reported Actual profile deviation = 2xA

Max: .0009

Min: -.0006

A = 0.0009

Profile Actual = 2xA = 0.0018

NOTE FROM EDITOR: Although this article is focused on Calypso this formula is used in all softwares to calculate Bilateral Equal Distribution.

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CMM Quarterly Publications Offers a New Training Manual

2013-07-20T12:35:00.000-04:00

Click here for more information

Coordinate Metrology Society Launches Level-One Certification Program for Portable 3D Metrology

2013-04-22T21:05:00.002-04:00

First Examinations to be held at 2013 Coordinate Metrology Systems Conference

San Diego, CA – April 22, 2013 – The Coordinate Metrology Society (CMS), the eminent membership association for measurement professionals, today announced the launch of the industry’s first Level-One Certification for Portable 3D Metrology.

The first examinations will be held at the 29^th annual Coordinate Metrology Systems Conference (CMSC), July 22 – 26, 2013, at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel and Marina. Applicants for the Level-One Certification must submit an application, meet eligibility requirements, sign the CMS code of ethics, and pass a peer review. Qualifying candidates will be notified and scheduled for an examination seat at CMSC 2013. The cost for a CMS member to take the Certification exam is $400, non-member pricing is also available. Certification program guidelines and application forms are available on the CMS website at https://www.cmsc.org/cms-certification.

The CMS Certification credential aids in quantifying an employee’s knowledge of metrology, which is essential to ISO certified manufacturers and companies with Quality Management Systems. The Certification exam is currently comprised of two assessments. The Level-One examination is a proctored, online assessment consisting of about 200 multiple choice questions covering foundational theory and practice common to most portable 3D Metrology devices. The Level-Two exam on a portable CMM (coordinate measuring machine) is being piloted at the 2013 CMSC. This is a practical performance assessment. The candidate must use a metrology instrument to collect a series of measurements on an artifact, then analyze specific features of that artifact.

“Portable 3D Metrology is being integrated into manufacturing processes at a rapid rate,” states Randy Gruver, chair of the CMS Certification Committee. “The Coordinate Metrology Society determined a clear need for a Certification program based on a graying workforce and the increasing need for metrology expertise. Data collection technologies that were once the domain of scientists, engineers and mathematicians, are now being used by technicians and shop-floor personnel for industrial applications and beyond. The measurement equipment is calibrated and certified to performance standards, but the personnel operating this equipment are not accredited. There are many variables induced by an operator that can dramatically influence data collection. It is important for an employer to understand the knowledge level of an employee or a metrology service provider in this industry.”

About the Coordinate Metrology Society

The Coordinate Metrology Society is comprised of users, service providers, and OEM manufacturers of close-tolerance industrial coordinate measurement systems, software, and peripherals. The metrology systems represented at the annual Coordinate Metrology Systems Conference (CMSC), include articulated arm CMMs, laser trackers, laser radar, photogrammetry/videogrammetry systems, scanners, indoor GPS and laser projection systems. The Coordinate Metrology Society gathers each year to gain knowledge of the advancements and applications of any measurement system or software solution that produces and uses 3D coordinate data. For more information on this organization, visit their web site at http://www.cmsc.org.

About the Coordinate Metrology Systems Conference

The Coordinate Metrology Systems Conference (CMSC) is the world's premier event for Measurement Technology Professionals. This annual event is sponsored by the Coordinate Metrology Society. Established in 1984, the five-day conference is held each year at a different location, and attracts visitors from around the globe. CMSC is acclaimed for its comprehensive program of top-shelf white papers and applications presentations given by industry experts from science/research laboratories and manufacturing industries such as aerospace, space hardware, antenna, automotive, shipbuilding, power generation, and general engineering. No other trade show rivals the high level of authoritative information provided by CMSC members and master users of portable metrology instruments, software, and peripheral equipment for quality control, quality production, and precision assembly.

Hexagon Metrology Releases PC-DMIS Gear 2.5

2013-02-14T13:50:00.003-05:00

View story at CMM Quarterly

North Kingstown, RI – February 14, 2013 – Hexagon Metrology today announced the release of PC-DMIS Gear 2.5, a sophisticated software module designed for basic and advanced gear measurement applications. The new version simplifies measurement routines by using a parameter-driven graphical interface to speed inspections of helical spur, bevel gears and pinions. PC-DMIS Gear 2.5 software is compatible with standard CMMs, eliminating the need to invest in separate gear measurement equipment. The software also runs on vision CMMs for inspection applications of small spur gears. PC-DMIS is an integrated metrology system used for developing inspection routines, measuring parts, managing data, evaluating and reporting results. PC-DMIS Gear 2.5 is developed by Hexagon Metrology, the largest software developer in the metrology industry.

Expert and non-expert operators can quickly build gear inspection routines by first completing a rules-driven form, then choosing the desired inspection report(s) from a set of pre-defined, standard formats. The software then automatically generates the program and inspection reports. Users can also create measurement alignment and probe qualification routines to completely automate the inspection process. PC-DMIS Gear supports a wide range of international standards including AGMA 2000-A88, DIN 3962, JIS B 1702 and ISO 1328.

“PC-DMIS Gear is a very cost-effective inspection method as compared to expensive, dedicated gear measurement equipment,” states Ken Woodbine, President of Hexagon Metrology’s software division. “The software interface has been enhanced and simplified ¾ even entry-level operators can run inspection routines accurately. Utilizing forms, wizards and pre-defined routines, users can calibrate probes, define datums, and measure and evaluate gears in record time.”

About Hexagon Metrology

Hexagon Metrology is part of Hexagon (Nordic exchange: HEXA B). Hexagon is a leading global provider of design, measurement and visualization technologies that enable customers to design, measure and position objects, and process and present data.

2013-02-03T12:30:00.000-05:00

Mark Boucher Consulting, a CMM Quarterly company, new ad

NIKON METROLOGY AND CROTTS & SAUNDERS ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP FOR SOUTHEAST REGION

2013-01-09T14:58:00.001-05:00

BRIGHTON, MI – December 12, 2012 - — Nikon Metrology, Inc. and Crotts & Saunders Engineering have announced an agreement offering innovative products and services for industrial metrology across the Southeast region, with state-of-the-art capabilities that will advance the quality of metrology across the region. Robert Wasilesky, Senior Vice President of Sales for Nikon Metrology states, “Nikon Metrology’s commitment to bring leading-edge technology to the southeast is greatly enhanced by our new partnership with Crotts & Saunders. This new partnership will benefit industry in this important region by integrating Nikon Metrology’s complete line of innovative metrology products with Crotts & Saunders tradition of sales excellence, service and local support.” Crotts & Saunders Engineering has offered metrology services in the Carolinas, Virginia, and West Virginia for nearly 60 years. “We have a deep understanding of this service industry and realize that customers’ needs are becoming more complex in terms of their measurement standards as well as their sheer ability to get the job done in a more efficient and effective manner.”, said Van Crotts, President of Crotts & Saunders Engineering, “We are very proud of our past metrology services division, and are now aggressively focused on building an even stronger future to exceed ever changing customer expectations. By combining Crotts & Saunders full suite of unmatched custom client services and Nikon’s commitment to delivering breakthrough innovative products we will do just that.” Thomas Ayers, Manager of Metrology Services says, “We are excited about this partnership on a number of levels, but at the core we now have a partner that truly understands that the industry can only advance through innovative technology. Together we believe that we have the ability to redefine the category and recalibrate customers’ expectations of a metrology partner.”

Crotts & Saunders services will expand to include West Virginia. Nikon will also utilize the Crotts & Saunders headquarters located on Silas Creek Parkway as a regional hub for demonstrating the product line and training for the entire Southeast region.

NIKON METROLOGY INTRODUCES PREMIUM PORTABLE ARM-BASED CMM SCANNING SOLUTION WITH MCAx Articulated arm and MMDx Scanners

2012-09-19T21:36:00.000-04:00

September 10, 2012 – Brighton, MI – Nikon Metrology introduces the MCAx Manual Coordinate Measuring Arm - a precise, reliable and easy-to-use portable 7-axis measuring arm. It is the perfect partner for the ModelMaker MMDx/MMCx digital handheld laser scanners and Focus 10 Handheld scanning and inspection software. This total solution’s accuracy, capability and portability make it feel perfectly at home in the metrology lab, on the shop floor and in-the-field. The MCAx arm can be equipped with a wide range of probing systems for laser scanning, touch-trigger measurements and continuous scanning. The new 7-axis MCAx range of articulated arms is available with a measurement volume ranging from 2.0 and 4.5 meter diameter.

Already known for its industry-leading data capture of almost any material (ESP3), the arm and scanner now offer improved total solution accuracy. It offers compactness in packaging and an unprecedented seamless transition between probing and scanning. This high-precision portable scanning solution reaches better than 50µm of measurement accuracy while encased in an enhanced ergonomic design. Applications such as Automotive R & D, Quality Labs and Contract Inspection facilities will benefit from a shortened learning curve due to the ease of use, while delivering measurement data faster and with greater confidence in the results. Specifications for these 7-axis arms range from 2.0m to 4.5m, and include infinite rotation of the principle axes. Absolute encoders are standard as is the locking counterbalance feature. Base options include Bolt-Down Base Plates or a Magnetic Base, WiFi, Battery, and probes.

ABOUT NIKON METROLOGY
Nikon Metrology offers the most complete and innovative metrology product portfolio, including state-of-the-art vision measuring instruments complemented with optical inspection and mechanical 3D metrology solutions. These reliable and innovative products respond to the advanced inspection requirements of manufacturers active in consumer, automotive, aerospace, electronics, medical and other industries. For more information, visit www.nikonmetrology.com.
Product-related inquiries may be directed to Nikon Metrology, Inc. at 810-220-4360 or Marketing_US@NikonMetrology.com

NIKON METROLOGY BECOMES OFFICIAL PARTNER FOR METROLOGY TO PENSKE RACING

2012-09-12T18:26:00.000-04:00

BRIGHTON, MI – September 11, 2012 - Nikon Metrology Inc. and Penske Racing today jointly announced a multi-year partnership agreement that makes Nikon Metrology the Official Supplier of Dimensional Metrology Products and Services to Penske Racing.
Penske Racing, known as the “New York Yankees of motorsports” with over 23 national championships, including 12 in Indy Car racing, is the standard for excellence in motorsports. In its efforts to achieve continuous improvement, Penske Racing wanted to further enhance its advanced technology and manufacturing methods and the organization followed that to the conclusion of the need for a premier Metrology provider. That search led to Nikon Metrology.

"When Penske Racing approached us, we recognized immediately the fit between two leaders in their respective fields," said Hajime Kosawa, Managing Director of Nikon Metrology, Inc. "Our North American Technology Center in Brighton, MI has extensive experience working with automotive companies, and this is a very logical extension, combining our experience and products with Penske Racing’s leadership in motorsports and its quest for continuous improvement and realized results."
Nikon Metrology is one of the largest global providers of metrology products and value-added services, with one of the widest range of products.

"To have Nikon Metrology team with us helps Penske Racing continue its winning ways and further extend our footprint by expanding the boundaries in ways to improve," said John Moloney, General Manager of Penske Technology Group. "Our commitment to putting forth the most competitive and advanced race cars possible has been improved greatly with Nikon Metrology as a partner."

ABOUT PENSKE RACING
Penske Racing is one of the most successful teams in the history of professional sports. Competing in a variety of disciplines, cars owned and prepared by Penske Racing have produced 362 major race wins, including 15 Indianapolis 500 victories, 423 pole positions and 23 National Championships. For more information about Penske Racing, please visit www.penskeracing.com.

ABOUT NIKON METROLOGY
Nikon Metrology offers the most complete and innovative metrology product portfolio, including state-of-the-art vision measuring instruments complemented with optical inspection and mechanical 3D metrology solutions. These reliable and innovative products respond to the advanced inspection requirements of manufacturers active in consumer, automotive, aerospace, electronics, medical and other industries. For more information, visit www.nikonmetrology.com.

Hexagon Metrology Presents New Corporate Branding

2012-09-06T10:53:00.001-04:00

Refreshed Hexagon Metrology Brand Represents Closer Strategic Alignment with Parent Company Hexagon and New Market Positioning Cobham, United Kingdom,

September 5, 2012 – Hexagon Metrology today launched its new corporate branding, including a refreshed company logo and updated brand strategy. The new brand more closely aligns Hexagon Metrology with the strengths and synergies of its parent company Hexagon, a leading global provider of design, measurement and visualization technologies.

As part of the rebranding effort, Hexagon Metrology has repositioned its brand strategy, and will now serve as the primary presence in the metrology marketplace while still retaining its iconic product brands. By raising awareness of the Hexagon Metrology brand, the company seeks to promote new growth opportunities as their global customer base associates Hexagon Metrology’s strengths as a company to its entire portfolio of measurement and inspection products.

“Looking toward the future, our core competency can be summarized by proven solutions, customer services, a wide selection of software, precision sensors, and extensive know-how in the sectors we serve,” said Norbert Hanke, President of Hexagon Metrology. “This new chapter in our history is an affirmation of our continued commitment to helping customers reinvent today, outpace change, and solve problems for tomorrow.”

Building upon the company’s nearly 200-year history in the metrology industry, the new brand emphasizes the technological leadership Hexagon Metrology provides to some of the world’s most critical industries.

About Hexagon Metrology

Hexagon Metrology offers a comprehensive range of products and services for all industrial metrology applications in sectors such as automotive, aerospace, energy and medical. We support our customers with actionable measurement information along the complete life cycle of a product – from development and design to production, assembly and final inspection.

With more than 20 production facilities and 70 Precision Centers for service and demonstrations, and a network of over 100 distribution partners on five continents, we empower our customers to fully control their manufacturing processes, enhancing the quality of products and increasing efficiency in manufacturing plants around the world. For more information, visit www.hexagonmetrology.com.

Hexagon Metrology is part of Hexagon (Nordic exchange: HEXA B; www.hexagon.com). Hexagon is a leading global provider of design, measurement and visualization technologies that enable customers to design, measure and position objects, and process and present data.

Creaform Unveils Expanded and Enhanced MetraSCAN 3D Optical CMM Scanners Line-Up

2012-05-02T08:49:00.001-04:00

Lévis, May 1, 2012 – Creaform, leader in portable 3D measurement technologies, is proud to unveil its new line-up of MetraSCAN 3D optical CMM scanners – the most accurate 3D scanners for demanding quality control and reverse engineering applications. The MetraSCAN 3D optical CMM Scanners The MetraSCAN 3D scanners are the most accurate scanning solutions on the market, whether in lab or on the shop floor. Like Creaform’s entire portfolio of measuring technologies, the MetraSCAN 3D are easy to master and use, and they take only a few minutes to set up. Featuring Creaform's TRUaccuracy technology, the MetraSCAN 3D ensure highly-accurate dimensional surface measurements, regardless of the measurement environment (instability, vibrations, thermal variations, etc.) or operator skills. The combination of a MetraSCAN 3D CMM scanner and a HandyPROBE arm-free CMM makes for a complete and powerful measurement system for points and surfaces, and enable geometrical and freeform inspection on the same part, with the same system. What’s New The new MetraSCAN 3D handheld scanners are now offered in two versions: · The MetraSCAN 70 offers optimal resolution. It is ideal for projects where geometrical feature definition is key, such as sheet metal and tooling inspection. · The MetraSCAN 210 offers increased measurement speed. Its increased stand-off and depth of field make for enhanced scanning flexibility. It is ideal for large surface metrology and large-scale reverse engineering. · Both 3D scanners feature the same accuracy and they have been fitted with a new light carbon structure. “We believe that this expanded and enhanced MetraSCAN line-up fits the needs of our customers now more closely when it comes to quality control or reverse engineering applications, said Jean-François Larue, product director. What’s more, we integrated the know-how acquired on the technology since the launch of the first generation of MetraSCAN in 2010. Among all the inspection systems available on the market, the MetraSCAN 3D scanners remain best at increasing the reliability, speed and versatility of the measurement process.” The new devices will be presented to the public for the first time during the CONTROL tradeshow in Stuttgart, Germany, from May 8 to 11 (hall 5, booth 5108). About Creaform Creaform develops, manufactures and sells 3D portable measurement technologies and specializes in 3D engineering services. The company offers innovative solutions that cover the entire range of 3D applications, including 3D scanning, reverse engineering, advanced surfacing, inspection and numerical simulation. Its products and services are intended for industries such as the automotive, aerospace, 3D body measurement, consumer products, heavy industries, manufacturing, power generation and research & education. Creaform has developed and sells the Handyscan 3D portable, self-positioning 3D scanners, along with the HandyPROBE arm-free portable CMM and the MetraSCAN 3D optical CMM scanners. The company also brings photogrammetry to all its technologies with the MaxSHOT 3D optical coordinate measuring system. Moreover, the company offers the Creaform 3D Body Digitizers. Creaform reached C$37.5 million in sales in 2011. The company employs more than 300 people worldwide, and has offices in Québec City, Montréal, the United States, France, Germany, China, India and Japan. The company’s head office and Quebec-based offices are 9001 : 2008 ISO certified.

Small and Extremely Precise

2012-03-31T17:36:00.000-04:00

With the MICURA coordinate measuring machine, Carl Zeiss is setting new standards in the compact class.

The MICURA coordinate measuring machine from Carl Zeiss meets user demands for smaller coordinate measuring machines that are as accurate as their larger relatives but offer a price advantage. This measuring machine is considerably more affordable thanks to the smaller measuring range. Nonetheless, with a measuring range of 500 x 500 x 500 millimeters, it is still the largest in this class. The parts in industrial manufacturing, such as artificial hips, gear wheels, optical lens elements and shafts with narrow tolerances, are becoming increasingly compact while the requirements on accuracy are rising. With MICURA, the measuring technology needed to complete these jobs is now available.

The measuring accuracy of MICURA is less than one micrometer. This is enabled by the VAST XT Gold probe which is able to continually scan surfaces at a speed of 200 measured points per second. VAST navigator scanning technology, which is optional for MICURA, is an ideal supplement. It adapts the scanning speed to the measuring job: where a simple contour and less precision are required, MICURA moves faster. When high precision is needed , MICURA moves somewhat slower.

During development of MICURA, Carl Zeiss emphasized stability and rigidity. The machine features ceramic guideways, air bearings on four sides and a large bearing base for all moving parts. Furthermore, this coordinate measuring machine has an easy-to-use control panel and a temperature sensor to capture the workpiece temperature. MICURA thus combines a number of performance features that were previously unaffordable for small operations and beginners to quality inspection. Several systems are already in operation. MICURA will be presented in Europe for the first time at the Control show Stuttgart in May 2012.