Delcam to show metrology range at GTMA event
Delcam will demonstrate its complete range of metrology software, including the latest version of its PowerINSPECT inspection software, at the GTMA’s Make Measurement Matter event to be held at Warwick University’s Digital Lab on 15th September.
- (1888PressRelease) July 21, 2010 - In addition to PowerINSPECT, the world’s leading hardware-independent inspection software, Delcam offers programs to confirm the accuracy of machine tool set-ups, electronic fixturing systems to ensure CAM programs are aligned correctly with the part to be machined, and On-Machine Verification software to enable part accuracy to be checked before it leaves the machine.
PowerINSPECT combines the ability to work with all types of inspection device, including conventional CMMs, portable arms and optical devices, with a comprehensive range of routines for making simple measurements, for inspecting geometric features and for checking complex surfaces. The resulting reports present detailed information in easy-to-read formats that can be understood by all engineers, not just inspection specialists. The new release incorporates automatic surface inspection and the ability to use GD&T data from CATIA models, plus improvements to the handling of point cloud data and changes to the interface to make the software even easier to use.
Two recent options for PowerINSPECT will also be on show. PowerINSPECT PartAligner can be used with portable inspection equipment to simplify set-up operations for machine tools. It offers automated position compensation using an independent measuring device. Typically, this will be an inspection arm for medium-sized components or an optical device for very large parts or tooling. The measured position is then compared with the datum used in the CAM system to program the component. The results can be used to update a project in Delcam’s PowerMILL CAM system by adjusting the datum position and orientation. Alternatively the data can be applied directly to change the offsets in the machine-tool control.
PowerINSPECT Tubing makes it easier to inspect pipework and tubing, especially when these items are part of a larger assembly. Specialist software is available for tubing inspection but this generally doesn’t allow the measurement of other types of geometry, so two different and potentially incompatible systems may be required. PowerINSPECT Tubing allows the inspection of pipe geometry together with other components using a single software program on a wide range of devices.
NC-Checker is another recent addition to Delcam’s family of metrology software. This allows companies to undertake in-process verification of the performance of a wide range of commonly-used machine tools. It provides a quick and easy way to confirm the accuracy of the machine with standard probing equipment. NC-Checker can be used before machining starts to confirm that the equipment has been set up correctly and then applied during the production run to detect any movements out of tolerance that might have been caused, for example, by wear or temperature changes.
The final option, NC-PartLocator, is similar to PartAligner in that it gives the ability to adjust toolpaths to the actual position of the part, rather than having to ensure that the piece is in exactly the nominal location specified in the CAM system. However, it uses a probe in the machine tool to collect the data rather than a separate device. The benefits are similar in that adjustments can be made in the machine tool control much more quickly and easily than placing, and holding, the part in exactly the specified position, especially when producing large or heavy components. The same probe can be used to inspect the finished part using the PowerINSPECT option for On-Machine Verification.
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