Added MCOSMOS C1 v4 Manual

We have added a MCOSMOS C1 version 4 training manual to our products.

Understanding the 6 Degrees of Freedom

The following is an excerpt from The CMM Handbook

Using The Correct CMM Alignment Principles

Understanding the principle of the 6 degrees of freedom is essential to aligning your part correctly on the Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM). When a part is placed on the CMM the location of the part is not known.  It must be defined by using several features known as datums.

These datums are defined on the blueprint and must be measured to define the part’s location to the CMM’s home position. If a program were written without a complete datum alignment all the linear locations in your program would come from the machines home position and not from the locations given on the blueprint. The subsequent parts would have to be placed in the exact location and alignment for your program to work. Writing a datum alignment routine at the beginning of your program will allow you to place the part anywhere on the CMM surface plate and will insure that your part will be aligned properly and your program will run correctly each time.

There will be three alignment functions used to define the datums (1) Orientation – this will use a 3d element to align the part to a spatial alignment. (2) Alignment – an element is used to align the part square to a CMM axis. (3) Origin – this will determine where the zero point is set. CMM softwares use alignment dialog boxes that allow you to set all the required datum elements at one time.

Words To Be Familiar With

Alignment – A part must be aligned to the CMM axes before you can begin to fully measure your part. The alignment is based on the datums specified on the blueprint. This alignment routine will square the part to the CMM and set the reference point (Origin) for all other dimensions to be referenced to.

Datum – A feature on the blueprint that is designated with a Datum letter. This feature is used to establish an origin that will be used to reference all other dimensions from.

Origin – The part’s zero point. The reference point on a part where the all the datums converge. The origin is where all other features are dimensioned from.

Coordinate System – After your alignment is complete and your origin is set this is known as a coordinate system.

Rotational – This degree of freedom allows the part to rotate about a given axis.

Translational – This degree of freedom allows the part to move transitional along an axis.

These principles constrain the 6 degrees of freedom.

6 Degrees of Freedom 

When a part is held up in space it has “six degrees of freedom”, 3 Rotational and 3 Translational. The part can rotate about the X, Y, Z axes (rotational) and move along each of the three axes (translational). As shown below.

The part can rotate about the X, Y, Z axes and move along each of the three axes

In order to align a part to the CMM all degrees of freedom must be constrained, there are exceptions but, in our example, all must be constrained. For this example, we will place the part in a DRF, a datum reference frame. This will represent how we will constrain the degrees of freedom when we probe the part.

Placing the part on the surface plate or on a fixture constrains 3 degrees of freedom. The part can longer move up and down in Z (1 translation) or rotate about the X axis or about the Y axis (2 rotational).

Constraining 3 degrees of freedom

As you can see, we can still rotate about Z and move the part back and forth in the X and Y axes.

Constraining one side of the block will limit 2 more degrees of freedom. Removing the ability to rotate in the Z axis (1 rotational) and constrains the ability to move in the X axis (1 translational). The part can still move back and forth in the Y axis.

Constraining one side of the block will limit 2 more degrees of freedom.

 Constraining the last degree of freedom requires restricting the back-and-forth motion of the last axis.

Restricting the back-and-forth motion of the last axis.

Now all 6 degrees of freedom have been constrained. You can see how this is accomplished on an open surface plate setup by merely pushing the part against a knee block or some sort of fixture. With CMM software the constraining of features is done with probing the part.

Control Movement of Pattern of Holes Using VB Script

The following is an excerpt from The CMM Manager Handbook

Scenario

The shop is targeting a test piece, and they will only use 1 part. This may require moving a pattern of holes around, the holes relationship will be the same, but the first diameter of each pattern will move in X or Y or both axes.

The drawing.

By moving diameter 1 up in Y and maybe over in X the part will be able to be used over and over until the desired dimensional results are achieved.

Here is the program order.

Complete an alignment in this case we used a 3-2-1 Alignment.

After Diameter 1 & 5 are measured the alignment origin is set to the subsequent diameter to maintain the hole spacing. The diameter spacing is 2.500 in X.

Then open VB Script dialog box and add VB Script just above the diameter measurements.

Var1 and Var2 control the X and Y of the Top Front Holes. You will be required to enter a value.

Var3 and Var4 control the X and Y of the Back Top Holes. You will be required to enter a value.

var1 = InputBox("Enter Offset in X in Direction For Front Top Holes -/+")

Var2 = InputBox("Enter Offset in Y in Direction For Front Top Holes -/+")

var3 = InputBox("Enter Offset in X in Direction For Back Top Holes -/+")

Var4 = InputBox("Enter Offset in Y in Direction For Back Top Holes -/+")

If Var1 the known offset of the diameter location offset is 0.00 then the OffsetX variable is the print callout of 1.00

If var1 = 0 then

OffsetX = 1.0

End If

If Var1 greater than 0.00 then the OffsetX variable is the print callout of 1.00 + the input of Var1 (The known offset positive value)

If Var1 > 0 then

OffsetX = 1.0 + Var1

End If

If Var1 less than 0.00 then the OffsetX variable is the print callout of 1.00 + the input of Var1 (The known offset negative value)

If Var1 < 0 then

OffsetX = 1.0 +(Var1*1)

End If

If Var2 the known offset of the diameter location offset is 0.00 then the OffsetY variable is the print callout of 1.00

If Var2 = 0 then

OffsetY = 1.0

End If

If Var2 greater than 0.00 then the OffsetY variable is the print callout of 1.00 + the input of Var2 (The known offset positive value)

If Var2 > 0 then

OffsetY = 1.0 + Var2

End If

If Var2 less than 0.00 then the OffsetY variable is the print callout of 1.00 + the input of Var2 (The known offset negative value)

If Var2 < 0 then

OffsetY = 1.0 +(Var2*1)

End If

If Var3 the known offset of the diameter location offset is 0.00 then the OffsetX variable is the print callout of 1.00

If var3 = 0 then

OffsetX3 = 1.0

End If

If Var3 greater than 0.00 then the OffsetX variable is the print callout of 1.00 + the input of Var3 (The known offset positive value)

If Var3 > 0 then

OffsetX3 = 1.0 + Var3

End If

If Var3 less than 0.00 then the OffsetX variable is the print callout of 1.00 + the input of Var3 (The known offset negative value)

If Var3 < 0 then

OffsetY3 = 1.0 +(Var3*1)

End If

If Var4 the known offset of the diameter location offset is 0.00 then the OffsetY variable is the print callout of 19.00

If Var4 = 0 then

OffsetY4 = 19.0

End If

If Var4 greater than 0.00 then the OffsetY variable is the print callout of 19.00 + the input of Var4 (The known offset positive value)

If Var4 > 0 then

OffsetY4 = 19.0 + Var4

End If

If Var4 less than 0.00 then the OffsetY variable is the print callout of 19.00 + the input of Var4 (The known offset negative value)

If Var4 < 0 then

OffsetY4 = 19.0 +(Var4*1)

End If

Flexxbotics Integrates Hexagon Inspection Equipment

This integration of robot and in-line inspection capabilities reportedly enable continuous, unattended robot operations.

Flexxbotics, a supplier of workcell digitalization technologies for robot-driven manufacturing, has released FlexxCore, its advanced robotic machine tending in-line inspection connectivity compatible with Hexagon inspection equipment. This combination of technologies was developed to help manufacturers achieve precision quality with Six Sigma consistency and faster cycle times by delivering higher yields and greater throughput on complex parts for increased profit per part, according to Flexxbotics.
 
FlexxCore is designed to enable robots to securely connect and communicate with Hexagon machines, allowing the robots to receive closed-loop feedback based on automated inspection results enabling real-time adjustments to CNC machine programs for autonomous process control. Flexxbotics claims that, with this in-line inspection capability, it’s possible to orchestrate fleets of robots to achieve continuous, unattended operations.
 
The Hexagon inspection technologies that can be used with Flexxbotics include Hexagon’s PC-DMIS CMM (coordinate measuring machine) for bridge and gantry CMMs, the Tempo robotic-enabled CMM system, NC measuring software, and the Q-DAS product line for statistical process control and intelligent machine control (IMC).
 
“We believe in-line inspection technologies make autonomy in the smart factory possible, providing the closed-loop coordination necessary for autonomous process control,” said Tyler Modelski, chief technology officer and co-founder of Flexxbotics. “That’s why we have focused on making inspection equipment interoperable with CNC machines and the production robots which control and coordinate robot-driven manufacturing.”
 
Flexxbotics points out that its SaaS (software-as-a-service) robot operating software can operate online and offline, allowing production to continue with or without internet access. The company also promotes its ability to work with existing business systems such as CAD/CAM, DNC, SCADA/HMI, MES, ERP, PLM and others for process integration.

2-Day In-Person Public GD&T Training Event on July 9-10, 2024

We are thrilled to announce that we are hosting a 2-Day In-Person Public GD&T Training Event on July 9-10, 2024 with Measurement Supply Company in Tampa, FL!

This In-Person GD&T Fundamentals Public Training Course allows you to learn GD&T in 2-days - with a live in-person instructor, enabling you to complete training off site, without distractions from the office or home. In this course, we teach a simple framework for understanding how GD&T is used and why it improves the manufacturing process. Our GD&T Fundamentals course focuses on practical knowledge and uses real-world drawing examples throughout the class to practice what is learned. 

Details:

GD&T Fundamentals - Measurement Supply Co. Partnership

$1299 per person

July 9-10, 2024

8:30 am - 4:30 pm 

12820 DuPont Circle Tampa, FL 33626

Registration ends: July 5, 2024

GD&T Fundamentals Registration - Tampa, FL

GD&T Fundamentals Syllabus - Tampa, FL

Additional information regarding our public training courses - including courses offered and upcoming training dates - can be found on our website:

Don't miss this chance to elevate your skills and gain a competitive edge in today's dynamic engineering landscape. Our GD&T training has been meticulously designed to provide you with comprehensive insights into Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing, ensuring you can effectively interpret and communicate engineering drawings. Whether you're a seasoned professional seeking to sharpen your expertise or a newcomer looking to grasp the fundamental concepts, our course is tailored to meet your unique needs.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to hearing from you!

The GD&T Basics Team

AGILITY S 5-axis multi-sensor CMMs for the shop floor

The AGILITY range of CMMs will help to increase the throughput and quality of your manufacturing with fully integrated dimensional measurement and surface roughness inspection. From the use of high-quality materials and components to the full optimisation of 5-axis measurement technology, AGILITY CMMs provide a high-speed, high-performance solution for the shop floor or metrology lab.

AGILITY CMMs bring together the pioneering technology and high-quality manufacturing that have gained Renishaw an unrivalled reputation for innovation in the most demanding industry sectors. The machines are designed to deliver all the advantages of the REVO multi-sensor 5-axis measurement system, including:

• 15% to 50% cycle time savings, compared to 3-axis measurement systems

• Integrated dimensional inspection and surface roughness measurement

• Infinite positioning for superior feature access

Designed for shop floor environments

The S range of CMMs provides the ability to accurately measure parts in shop floor environments without temperature control. The rapid data capture speeds provided by 5-axis measurement reduce inspection cycle times, helping production departments keep pace with high volume manufacture. The systems work well in both stand-alone and fully automated production lines.

Rapid results at the point of manufacture

Results are captured at, or close to the point of manufacture, so production decisions can be made much faster. This replaces the traditional method of routing parts to centralised inspection facilities, reducing time and cost to the part and the risk associated with part handling.

Reducing operations

The multi-sensor capability of the system allows users to combine multiple checks in one automated part program. This gives production departments the ability to report on dimensional features and surface roughness callouts. AGILITY CMMs therefore minimise footprint and simplify measurement processes.

AGILITY L CMMs with 5-axis multi-sensor technology for laboratories

Premium accuracy

The L range of CMMs delivers the performance needed by manufacturers operating in the top end of aerospace, automotive, consumer electronics and other precision engineering sectors. The most accurate machine has sub-micron accuracy, and even the largest L 163512 is specified at under 2 µm.

High throughput

The 5-axis functionality helps meet the throughput challenges of a machine operating in a controlled environment as an integral part of the manufacturing process. Fast inspection turnaround of development parts and production samples ensures verification is as efficient as possible.

Ultimate multi-sensor flexibility

Combining the infinite positioning of the REVO probe head with the most comprehensive range of sensors, AGILITY L machines are an ideal platform for developing new products and manufacturing processes. The surface finish probe will reach features previously inaccessible. The non-contact sensors will capture surface data without touching the part. The ultrasonic thickness probe simplifies inspection routines and often eliminates the need for part reorientation.

A range of CMMs with enhanced reliability, capability and precision

The range of AGILITY CMMs enhances the design and production capabilities of manufacturers globally. The machines provide a first-class metrology solution to meet the demanding performance requirements of manufacturers in aerospace, automotive, medical and many other safety-critical industries.

Renishaw also provides CMM probes, software and retrofits to ensure solutions to a range of manufacturing issues.

Calypso Handbook

The Calypso Handbook serves as a comprehensive reference manual for Calypso programming. It includes embedded videos to facilitate understanding of various topics covered in the manual. Elevate your programming skills with these expert tips, each of which has been applied in real-world programming and verified to be effective.