Precision Micro-Grinding
Precision Micro-Grinding
VIEW metrology solutions measure critical dimensions in a wide variety of applications involving 2D micro-components and assemblies. Compared to “walk up and measure” routines, VIEW systems are designed for continuous operation in automated production environments, with speeds that often help metrology teams achieve 100% inspection.
Measurement in Precision Micro-Grinding
Quality assurance and inspection of critical automotive components such as precision nozzles require metrology systems that can effectively combine both extremely accurate measurement and a high-level of process flexibility. To ensure robust performance over extended usage under very demanding environmental conditions, injector components must be controlled to very close tolerances across a number of different features, such as multiple diameters, length, taper, angles, and aperture positions.
In order to achieve required manufacturing consistency and quality, metrology systems must be able to deliver robust process control for near in-line production support. Every aspect of the metrology system needs to perform at the highest levels, including tight calibration, high-resolution stage motion, quality optics, autofocus capabilities, and sophisticated lighting options.
The inspection of electrical test probes requires precision metrology capabilities to accurately measure small features such as the positioning, pitch, and coplanarity of test lead ends. Fast and repeatable precision inspection processes often require a combination of multiple magnifications, high-performance video auto-focus with 50X lens, and/or through-the-lens laser options for rapid Z-axis measurements.
In addition to performing these demanding dimensional measurements, the VIEW systems are also used to perform defect inspection which in this case includes the presence of a broken wire or scratches on the substrate surface.
Precision cutting tools such as end mills represent especially difficult process control challenges for metrology systems because they require extremely precise features, dimensions, and cutting surfaces in order to deliver consistent results when deployed within demanding machining applications.
In addition to needing extremely high levels of three-dimensional accuracy, metrology systems often have to incorporate a rotary 4th axis for ensuring accuracy of the complex curves and contours that are critical features of many cutting tools. All rotary axis functions must be smoothly integrated within the overall metrology system and be fully programmable by the system-level software.
The accurate measurement of precision watch components places a number of special challenges on metrology systems used for inspection and process control. The small part sizes, variety of shapes, different gear geometries, and tight clearance specifications are all critical considerations when designing a metrology application for process control and inspection of watch components.
In addition, the range of materials and surface finishes used in watch components can inject an extra dimension of difficulty into the inspection process. To meet these challenges, metrology platforms must provide very consistent accuracy and repeatability with excellent autofocus capabilities and grid-focus options, plus a high degree of overall programming flexibility
