Saving time in the process of parts measurement is a key element in the production chain.
Our automated checking fixtures enable to measure various dial indicator points on a part simultaneously, as well as making statistical studies, such as Cp/Cpk capability studies.
To automate our checking fixtures, we use sensors systems from the firm Marposs. These sensors, connected by a pneumatic system to a data collection unit, are activated by one single button, enabling to measure the deviation of various points on a part in a few seconds.
We work more particularly with Merlin brand data collection units. These units can collect the values obtained by up to 16 measuring sensors.
What is more, the system of sensors and Merlin unit is compatible with up to 50 different checking fixtures, for a better performance rate in your production plant. The unit has a USB port to export the collected data in Excel format.
The automation system can be used with any type of parts, but is commonly used in the automotive sector for plastic parts, that tend to deform themselves during the injection process.
1. Merlin data collection unit
This unit is connected to a plastic part checking fixture. The sensors are connected to the fixture thanks to a pneumatic system. The Merlin unit works with a Windows application, and thus does not bring any compatibility or usability problem for computer users. The unit has a tactile screen, and enables to get access either to a synthesis of all the measurements made on a series, or to the detailed measurements on a particular part.
2. Pneumatic connection sensor
This sensor is connected to a Mitutoyo dial indicator, combining thus the dial indicator precision to the sensor connection quickness. The data provided by every sensor can be combined together to obtain, for example, dimensions or deviations of the surfaces of the part checked.
3. Checking fixture with six pneumatic connection sensors
The checking fixture is connected to six sensors positions. In case of an evolution of the part dimensions, Tecnomatrix can correct the position of the sensors, which will mean a simpler change than the modification of the whole checking fixture, or the creation of a new checking fixture adapted to the modifications. In case of small changes on the part, the Merlin unit can also be applied a correction factor for the sensor/s affected by the part evolution.
4. Connection of all the sensors with a single button
The operator presses the button connecting the sensors to the data collection system simultaneously. This simultaneity allows to get a more precise control of the part: it prevents the part from being deformed by the pressure of the dial indicator, since each deviation is compensated by the sensor positioned on the opposite side of the part.
Apart from this pneumatic connection sensor system, we can also propose you the same type of checking fixture, but with a manual connection system. For this system, the sensors get connected to their measuring points through a lever at the base of the sensors towers. Nonetheless, the checking fixtures equipped with that type of systems do not usually have a very good repeatability, which is why we recommend you the use of the pneumatic connection system.
Read more about automated checking fixtures in our article in Measure Control Blog.
See a video of one of our automated checking fixtures in our “Catalogue & Videos” section.
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