Automated CMM Batch Inspection for Flexible Part Changeovers

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) are cumbersome to operate, require skilled operators, and are not suitable for flexible batch production environments due to high setup times and machine downtime, leading to inefficiencies in production lines where different part batches with varying geometries and specifications need to be inspected.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that integrates a CMM into a production line, enabling automatic sequential inspection of workpieces using a robot and intuitive user interfaces, allowing entry-level labor to monitor and control the process, and utilizing a database of job objects and templates to manage workpiece variation for continuous automated inspection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If CMM is used for accurate measurement of workpieces, then measurement precision is improved, but operator dependency and operation complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidoperator dependency

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables automated self-service operation through robot automation that loads workpieces, changes fixtures, and executes measurement routines without operator intervention. The CMM system automatically selects appropriate measurement programs based on workpiece identification, eliminating the need for skilled operators to manually configure measurement parameters and routines.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Manual mechanical operations by operators are replaced with automated robotic systems. The robot performs workpiece loading, fixture changing, and tooling replacement, substituting human mechanical actions with automated mechanical systems controlled by computer software.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If CMM is configured for specific measurement operations, then measurement reliability is improved, but adaptability to different batches deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemeasurement reliabilityVSAvoidbatch flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The CMM system is designed with multi-functionality to handle diverse measurement operations across different workpiece batches. The system automatically selects and executes appropriate measurement routines from a library based on workpiece identification, enabling a single CMM to perform multiple measurement functions without manual reconfiguration for each batch.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adapts measurement parameters, routines, and fixtures based on the specific batch requirements. The robot and CMM system automatically adjust their operations according to the workpiece type being measured, transitioning between different measurement configurations without manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If manual operator changes are made between batches, then adaptability is improved, but machine downtime increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebatch change capabilityVSAvoidmachine downtime

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-identifying the next batch requirements and preparing measurement routines and fixtures in advance. The robot anticipates batch changes and begins loading appropriate fixtures and tools before the current batch is complete, minimizing idle time during transitions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The automated system maintains continuous operation by eliminating idle periods between batches. The robot continuously loads workpieces and changes fixtures without stopping the CMM measurement process, ensuring that the measurement system is always productive and eliminating downtime associated with manual batch transitions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

4Measurement precision

If skilled operators are used for CMM operation, then measurement precision is improved, but labor cost and operation complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidoperation complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service by automatically selecting measurement routines, configuring parameters, and executing measurements based on workpiece identification. The automated robot and CMM system replace the need for skilled operators to make complex decisions about measurement setup and execution.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

An automated control system acts as an intermediary between the workpiece and the CMM measurement process. This intermediary system automatically interprets workpiece requirements, selects appropriate measurement routines, and coordinates robot actions, replacing the cognitive and decision-making functions previously performed by skilled operators.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP3966522B1Automated inspection process for batch production

Publication Date: 2026.02.18 HEXAGON METROLOGY INC

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Figure 1B
Figure 1C~1E

AI summary

Various embodiments enable batch inspection of a plurality of workpieces by and inspection instrument such as a coordinate measuring machine. Some embodiments present user interfaces, including graphical user interfaces, to enable an operator to configure a batch inspection system and a batch inspection job, and to monitor and control execution of a batch inspection job.