Dimensional inspection

Dimensional inspection is a process that aims to verify and measure the geometric and dimensional characteristics of an object or a part to ensure that they meet the required specifications. It is an essential step in quality control and ensuring the compliance of parts and assemblies with specific standards and requirements.

The main characteristics measured during dimensional inspection include linear dimensions, angles, tolerances, shapes, profiles, surface roughness, relative positions, deviations from specifications, etc. These measurements can be performed using traditional measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, comparators, gauges, profile projectors, or digital instruments such as coordinate measuring machines (CMM), measuring arms, and 3D scanners.
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Dimensional inspection with a measuring arm and a 3D scanner combines different techniques to obtain accurate and comprehensive measurements of parts or objects. Here are the main techniques implemented:

tactile measurement

The measuring arm is equipped with tactile probes that allow for direct contact measurement of dimensional characteristics with the part. Probes can be used to measure linear dimensions, angles, diameters, depths, etc. This technique is useful for flat or geometrical surfaces.

3D scanning

The 3D scanner mounted on the measuring arm captures three-dimensional point clouds of the surface of the part. This non-contact technique is particularly useful for complex geometries, curved surfaces, or parts with fine details. The 3D scanner emits a laser beam that is reflected by the surface of the part, and then the data is collected to reconstruct the 3D model.

CAD comparison

The data collected by the measuring arm and the 3D scanner can be compared to a reference Computer-Aided Design (CAD) model. This technique allows for verifying if the measured dimensions and shapes correspond to the specifications of the CAD model. Deviations can be visualized and analyzed to determine non-conformities and take corrective actions.

Tolerence analysis

The results of dimensional inspection can be used to perform tolerance analyses. The specified tolerances in the design plans are compared to the actual measurements to assess the quality of the part. This helps determine if the part is acceptable or if adjustments are necessary to comply with the specifications.

Inspection reports

The data collected during dimensional inspection can be used to generate detailed inspection reports. These reports provide comprehensive documentation of measurements, deviations from specifications, tolerance analyses, visual images, etc. They serve as evidence of compliance and traceability tools for product quality.

Use of the Ace measuring arm for maintenance in the railway sector

The use of a measuring arm with a 3D scanner in dimensional inspection offers a powerful combination of tactile and non-contact measurement techniques, allowing for accurate, comprehensive, and reliable data on the dimensional characteristics of parts. This facilitates the detection of non-conformities, tolerance analysis, and decision-making to ensure the quality of manufactured products.

Why use a Kreon 3D scanner with a measuring arm for dimensional inspection?

Speed and efficiency:
‍Kreon 3D scanners combined with a measuring arm enable fast and efficient measurements. They can capture a large amount of data in a single scan, reducing the time needed compared to traditional measurement methods.
Flexibility and portability:
‍Kreon measuring arms are lightweight and portable, allowing them to be easily moved to the part to be inspected, whether it's on the production site or in the design office.
Capture of complex geometries:
‍Kreon 3D scanners are capable of capturing complex shapes, including curved surfaces, internal cavities, and fine details, providing a comprehensive representation of the part.
High precision and resolution:
Kreon 3D scanners can capture all the details on the surface of an object with high precision, resulting in highly accurate 3D models that closely resemble the real object.
Ease of use:
‍Kreon measuring arms are user-friendly, and when combined with intuitive software, they guide the operator through the scanning process, simplifying the acquisition of parts.
Complementarity:
Kreon scanners used on an arm can also perform touch probing thanks to the integrated touch probe beneath the scanner. On one hand, the overall shape inspection is mastered using the scanner, while on the other hand, the inspection of geometric areas with smaller tolerances is ensured by the touch probe. This combination allows for a comprehensive and accurate evaluation of the part, enabling quick decisions to ensure compliance with specifications.