Auto Measurement
The ‘Inspection Module’ of SmartCorrect™ Gauging Stations is custom designed depending on job requirements.
There are two types of Inspection modules:
- For Shafts with Centers or resting on V blocks. In this type the axis of the job to be inspected is horizontal.
- For Non Shaft jobs. These are used in the production of Bear blanks/Spacers, Rings, Bushes, etc.
The part being manufactured is placed in the inspection position and inspection cycle is started. The ‘Inspection Elements’ inspect various dimensions of the part.
These elements are of three types:
- LVDT’s
- Displacement Lasers
- Vision sensors.
The elements may be stationary or mounted on pneumatically actuated brackets. The measurement is based on the comparator principle. The dimension measured is compared with a MASTER whose values have been stored in the system during mastering process. The measured values (for example, the outer diameter, bore & total height of a Ring etc.) are stored in the memory of the ‘Analysis Module’ and shown on the display screen of the gauging station.
Auto Analysis
The Analysis module is a PLC with HMI or PC and has advanced algorithms that carry out statistical analysis of several sets of readings to arrive at process mean for each of the measured dimensions and then compare them with respective tolerance means and calculate a ‘Correction Figure’ for each.
The analysis module also carries out other functions like tool life calculation.
Auto Correction
The ‘Correction Figure’ for each of the inspected dimensions is communicated to the CNC control and the appropriate tool wear offsets are ‘auto-corrected’ in real time. This is done without any involvement of the operator.
Digital Records
All the data, including Part serial number (as per series selected by user) and values of its measured dimensions, is stored in the memory of the SmartCorrect™ Gauging Station’s Analysis Module. This can be transmitted to desired locations for maintaining digital records and ensuring ‘Trace-ability’.