PART INSPECTION DROPS FROM TWO HOURS TO FIVE MINUTES

Instead of dedicating a static CMM located away from the point of manufacture, BMW combines the portability of Zett Mess inspection arms with PowerINSPECT software to make many more prototype inspections possible.

PowerINSPECT inspection software is being used on two Zett Mess AMPG measuring arms to inspect chassis prototypes in the “Process Technology Prototype Development” of the BMW Group. The system from Delcam plc (Birmingham, UK) gives faster results and is so easy to use that it is suitable for both inspection specialists and for production experts who haven’t had training in measurement technology.

PowerINSPECT is a leading hardware-independent software for the inspection of prototypes, tooling and production samples against CAD data. It works with a wide range of inspection devices, including static coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), and optical and laser-based systems, but is best known as the preferred software for portable inspection arms.

The combination of the portability of the inspection arms and the easy-to-use software makes it practical to make many more inspections than is possible with a dedicated CMM that might be located at a considerable distance from the point of manufacture. By allowing more inspections and by giving real time results in an easy-to-understand format, this software allows problems to be identified earlier and corrected at lower cost.

For all types of inspection, the software offers two key benefits: (1) a fast and simple, interactive method of collecting the data required and (2) a range of levels of reporting. During the inspection, the CAD model of the part is displayed on the computer screen. All results are displayed instantly on the model so the user knows immediately that he has measured the required point. This instant feedback also allows the operator to take additional measurements in areas where the initial results indicate potential problems.

At BMW, every new chassis prototype is received by the development team as a CAD file, which is used to weld the design. Welding distortions of 3 mm are the norm and have to be eliminated in a continual process of welding – inspection – correction – inspection. In the past, the inspection process for some of the parts required up to two hours. But now, only five minutes are needed with this inspection software. This provides significant time savings since up to five inspection passes are required per component.