Automation.com Has TR Cutler Examine On Machine Probing
Machine Tool Probes, Button and Laser Type Tool Setters, and Process Control Software using Probe Data come with their own series of challenges according to Cliff Jones, President of Advanced Probe Technologies. Jones asserts, "On-Machine probing is a great way to reduce costs, downtime and operator error. Although measuring a part when it's clamped into a machining center uses up metal-cutting time, doing so can actually save minutes upstream and downstream of the machining cycle. The whole idea behind on-machine probing is to eliminate variation in a process. Anytime, variation shows up there it turns into repairs, rework, or dollars lost."
Thomas R. Cutler, leading manufacturing journalist, looked at Progressive Plants that use On-Machine Probing for Automation.com; the complete article can be read at http://www.automation.com/resources-tools/articles-white-papers/articles-by-thomas-r-cutler/on-machine-probing-central-in-2010-lean-process.
According to Cutler, "Measuring and quality control on the machine tool is gaining increasing importance in progressive manufacturing plants. Much of probe programming is related to accurately defining the probe purpose and objective. While this may sound like a basic statement, there is almost no end to what a relatively simple in-process probing can do. Fortunately, most probe manufacturers have developed a series of canned routines for common probing problems."
From one off prototype to large runs there are strategic frameworks, methodologies, enabling technologies and automation which can significantly improve operating performance and market share; these tools result in an increased bottom line.
The Puyallup, Washington based firm has identified some of the key challenges firms face in addressing on-machine probing including:
- Calibration of the probe
- Part Location
- Difficulty writing extensive probing programs
- Understanding machine tool probe language
- In process verification of a part on the machine
- In process verification of part stock
- Backlog on CMM's
- Reduction of scrap
- Controlled Setup
- None or limited static process control
- Lack of in process control/inspection
- Inconsistent inspection results
- Reduction in variability
- Reduction of human error
- Downtime? productivity
- Embracing new technology
- Expensive tooling fixtures
Examples include finding the center of a hole, finding the center of a slot, and finding the edge or corner of a work-piece. Unfortunately, these simple routines seldom allow the probe user to do all that may be necessary for their probing requirements, meaning custom programs must be written.
SOURCE: TR Cutler, Inc.