Multicheck - What is it?
Propart
Machining and measurements are closely interconnected, as they ensure the quality and accuracy of produced parts. Here are some key aspects of this relationship:
01
Importance of Measurements in Machining
- Quality Control: Measuring the dimensions of parts allows for ongoing verification that production meets tolerance and specification requirements.
- Ensuring Accuracy: Regular measurements enable the identification of errors in the machining process, allowing for quick corrections.
02
Types of Measurements in Machining
- Measurement During Machining: Use of touch probes or vision systems to monitor dimensions in real-time.
- Post-Machining Measurement: Conducted using measuring tools such as micrometres, callipers, gauges, or 3D scanners.
03
Measurement Technologies
- Direct Measurement: Micrometres, callipers, diameter gauges, as well as templates and jigs.
- Non-Contact Measurement: Use of laser or optical technologies, which reduces the risk of damaging the parts.
04
Challenges Related to Measurements
- Measurement Time: Long measurement times can affect overall production efficiency.
- Complexity of Geometry: Parts with complicated geometries may require more advanced measurement methods.
Let’s focus on the challenges mentioned in point 4. Assume that in an efficient process, the measurement time can only be as long as not to exceed the cycle time of producing the part (from closing to reopening the machine doors). Regarding geometric complexity, there is the previously mentioned issue of using non-standard tools and—once again—the total measurement time, especially if there are multiple important features that we measure one after another in some way. On the other side, we have the machining time—let's assume, for example, that it is turning and takes place using a pair of machines or with a dual-spindle machine—then the total machining time for even a geometrically complicated part can take several, at most a dozen minutes.
In our company, we use the following methods for dealing with parts that would be conventionally measured longer than they are produced:
Unit or Prototype Production, or Parts with Few Important Characteristics
For prototyping, low-volume production, or unit production, we have been using universal programmable measuring machines, Equator™ by Renishaw, for years. For mass production of parts that have several measurement features and whose machining time oscillates around 4-5 minutes or more, the Equator is also effective; however, when there are more characteristics to measure, it is no longer suitable, as the Equator measures only one feature at a time.
Mass Production of Parts with Many Important Characteristics
During mass production of parts with complicated geometry—especially in the automotive industry—there is often a need to measure even dozens of parameters of a component simultaneously in a time shorter than the machining cycle. Our engineers, in collaboration with Oberon, have developed the concept of specialized measuring devices that allow for simultaneous measurement of multiple features in a time significantly shorter than the production cycle. These devices, named MULTICHECK, are designed and built individually for each serially produced component—for both internal use and for our partners and clients. The MULTICHECK devices, like the Equator™ machines, enable statistical process control, which we naturally take advantage of.