Automated CMM Inspection with Fixture Generation for Fast Part Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coordinate-measuring machines (CMMs) require extensive upfront programming time, skilled labor, and are not scalable for quick inspection of multiple parts due to the need for manual alignment and setup, making it challenging to inspect manufactured parts efficiently and rapidly.
Innovation Solution
An in-line automated inspection system that automates part alignment and generates fixture adapter models using stylus tip data, allowing for automated orientation and measurement of mechanical parts within a representative inspection system, reducing the need for manual intervention and speeding up the inspection process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If coordinate-measuring machine is used for part inspection, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to extensive programming time and manual setup
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically generating alignment routines and fixture adapter models from 3D CAD data before inspection begins. The CMM is pre-configured with alignment algorithms and measurement protocols, eliminating the need for manual programming and setup for each part, thus resolving the contradiction between maintaining measurement precision and improving productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by allowing the CMM to automatically determine part alignment and generate measurement routines without human intervention. The automated operator uses stylus tip data to create alignment routines and fixture adapter models autonomously, freeing skilled operators from repetitive setup tasks while maintaining measurement accuracy
2Measurement precision
If manual alignment procedure is used, then measurement precision is improved through skilled operator judgment, but loss of time increases due to extensive setup requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces the mechanical/manual alignment process with an automated computational system. The CMM automatically determines part alignment using algorithms that process stylus tip data and generate alignment routines, eliminating the time-consuming manual alignment procedure while maintaining or improving measurement precision through consistent automated execution
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameters of the alignment process by transitioning from manual operator judgment to automated algorithmic processing. The alignment routine automatically adjusts measurement parameters based on 3D CAD data and stylus tip feedback, reducing setup time while maintaining measurement precision through systematic parameter optimization
3Measurement precision
If extensive programming is required, then measurement precision is improved through customized inspection routines, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves universality by creating a multi-functional automated operator that handles multiple inspection tasks through a single integrated software platform. The same system generates alignment routines, creates fixture adapter models, and executes measurements across different part types, reducing the need for separate specialized programs while maintaining measurement precision through consistent automated processes
Data Source
AI summary
A method of in-line automated inspection of a mechanical part comprising receiving a mechanical part datum, orienting the mechanical part datum within a representative inspection system, and examining each face of the plurality of faces of the mechanical part datum, wherein examining each face of the plurality of faces of the mechanical part datum comprises dividing the face into regions as a function of stylus tip data. The method comprises generating a fixture adapter model for the mechanical part datum as a function of a local region of the mechanical part datum, generating a measurement of at least a pair of part geometric data, wherein generating a measurement comprises selecting the at least a pair of part geometric data as a function of the at least an alignment datum and displaying the measurement of at least the pair of part geometric data. The method comprises producing the fixture adapter.