Laser Probes
AutomationMedia.com has TR Cutler Examine On Machine Probing by Thomas R. Cutler
in Business (submitted 2010-02-16)
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 AutomationMedia.com; the complete article can be read at http://www.automationmedia.com/ARDetail.asp?ID=78. 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.
About TR Cutler, Inc.: TR Cutler, Inc. was founded by Thomas R. Cutler a decade ago. Cutler maintains extraordinary relationships with clients, journalists, editors, trendsetters, and key business leaders worldwide and has become a key resource for those writing about the manufacturing sector. Cutler founded the Manufacturing Media Consortium™ in the 1999. This extraordinary group of more than 3500 journalists worldwide is writing about trends, data, case studies, profiles, and features in the manufacturing and industrial sector. Cutler has worked with thousands of media outlets to expand manufacturing media coverage. Cutler has authored more than 2,500 articles for a wide range of manufacturing periodicals, industrial publications, and business journals including most of the leading monthly trade publications. TR Cutler, Inc. recently launched a new professional coaching system for manufacturers worldwide named C.E.O.™ or Continuous Experiential Optimization.
TR Cutler, Inc. www.trcutlerinc.com Thomas Cutler trcutler@trcutlerinc.com 888-902-0300
About the Author
Professional Marketing Firm for the Manufacturing Community and Manufacturing Journalist to most manufacturing magazines
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