The classic manufacturing conundrum is how to make products quicker, cheaper, and better.
Why use a metrology device on or near a machine tool? It isn’t just useful for making sure a tool is present or monitoring tools for wear or breakage. On-machine measurement technologies can save time and money, by speeding up processes and eliminating extra personnel, and they are a critical step in the movement towards “lights-out” manufacturing.
The challenges to manufacturing as it evolves into the 21st century are now familiar, and impact how metrology must contribute. Manufacturers face uncertain production volumes with roller-coaster demand, shorter production runs and faster product development cycles. Automation, while alluring as a way to reduce cost, needs to adjust.
When you walk into the Redeye On Demand facility in Eden Prairie, MN, you enter into one version of the factory of the future. There you will see a bank of 100 high-end Fortus fused-deposition modeling (FDM) machines from Stratasys that provide the capacity to build real, functional parts with production-grade thermoplastics directly from CAD data.
CMMs and other multifunctional metrology devices are becoming faster and more sophisticated, but top-quality gages and measuring tools still have an important place.
CAD/CAM software aids racing engine block shop.
Measurements have been used to define and attempt to control the stuff we make throughout recorded history. Here's the latest.
Digital metrology enables faster measurements, saving time, money and convenience.
What manufacturers wanting in on Industry 4.0 should know before investing in a 3D printer
CAD/CAM improves generative design, print simulation, path programming and process control in additive manufacturing.
