The main objective of the project work is to identify problems, which are related to computer-aided manufacturing and to show new perspectives to solve them. Especially in the automotive industry, the automation of processes is playing an increasingly significant role. New process’s like fully automated measuring cells enable the companies to achieve their goals efficiently. So, in this composition, the most common measurement principles, tactile and optical, will be explained. Moreover, the advantages and disadvantages of each system will be described. This report ends up with a conclusion and the central result is, that fully automated optical measurement cells are highly competitive to other measurement technologies, but still needs a lot of development and time.
The worldwide automotive industry is highly competitive. Customers have a stronger emphasis on product quality and pricing. For aesthetic and functional reasons, narrow, exactly parallel gaps on the doors, bonnet, and tailgate are now regarded as the obvious quality features of modern vehicles. To fulfill the customer and market requirements the investment in fully automated measuring technologies are continuing to rise.
Table of Contents
1. Abstract
2. Introduction
3. Control systems
3.a. Tactile control system
3.b. Optical control system
3.c. Comparison of tactile and optical measurement
3.d. Future Development
4. Fully automated optical measuring cell
4.a. Function of the measuring cell
4.b. Future development
5. Evaluation and Conclusion
Project Objectives and Key Topics
The primary objective of this project is to identify and address challenges in computer-aided manufacturing within the automotive industry, specifically focusing on the shift towards automated measurement technologies. The research aims to evaluate the efficiency and capabilities of fully automated optical measuring cells in comparison to traditional tactile inspection methods.
- Comparison of tactile versus optical measurement principles.
- Technical implementation of fully automated optical measuring cells.
- Advantages of optical systems regarding speed, automation, and data visualization.
- Potential for future integration of automated feedback loops in production lines.
- Evaluation of measurement accuracy and data processing requirements.
Excerpt from the Book
4. Fully automated optical measuring cell
In the following chapter the new duplex robot measuring cell, which is used by BMW were introduced and explained. Due to the enhancement of the system, prototypes and pre-production vehicles can now be digitized and measured twice as fast as before. Two GOM ATOS triple-scan sensors with a camera resolution of 16 megapixels simultaneously measure the entire vehicle on two 8-axis kinematics. The referencing of the sensor in the room is done via a 29-megapixel photogrammetry, called PlusBox for short. In addition, the overall accuracy of the system is further improved by photogrammetry. The built-in optical fiber technology offers in comparison to conventional copper cables in addition to significantly higher transmission rates and cable lengths significantly improved reliability. The unique feature of this 8-axis kinematics is the concatenated arrangement of two linear axes. In this case, a linear unit is arranged vertically to a horizontal guide along the vehicle main axis. Due to the additional vertical axis, the compact working area of the robot mounted on it can be enormously increased in height. Due to the duplex or double stand operation, twice as much data can be recorded at almost the same time compared to the single-stand version with a turntable. Based on the twice resolution compared to the previously used sensors, the speed and accuracy have been further increased.
Summary of Chapters
1. Abstract: Provides an overview of the project's goal to compare measurement principles and highlights the competitiveness of optical cells.
2. Introduction: Outlines the automotive industry's need for high-quality production and the rising investment in automated measurement technology.
3. Control systems: Explains the differences between tactile and optical sensors, including their respective advantages and future outlooks.
4. Fully automated optical measuring cell: Details the technical architecture and operational benefits of the BMW duplex robot measuring cell.
5. Evaluation and Conclusion: Summarizes the potential of optical systems while acknowledging the persistent challenges in data processing and the necessity of tactile systems for specific tasks.
Keywords
Computer Aided Manufacturing, Automotive Industry, Tactile Measurement, Optical Measurement, Automation, Robotics, Quality Control, Fringe Technology, Photogrammetry, 8-axis Kinematics, Digitalization, Production Efficiency, Sensor Technology, Metrology, Data Analysis.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core focus of this project?
The project focuses on modern inspection techniques in computer-aided manufacturing, comparing traditional tactile contact probes with non-contact optical measurement systems.
Which specific industry is analyzed?
The analysis centers on the automotive industry, where high-precision quality control of components and vehicles is essential for market competitiveness.
What is the primary goal of the research?
The goal is to identify current problems in manufacturing inspection and demonstrate how fully automated measuring cells can provide more efficient, faster, and reliable quality assurance.
Which scientific methods are utilized?
The work employs a comparative methodology, evaluating the performance, technical specifications, and application scope of both tactile and optical measuring systems.
What is covered in the main section?
The main section discusses inspection techniques, the mechanics of tactile and optical systems, a detailed comparison table of both, and a case study of a duplex robot measuring cell.
How is the performance of the optical measuring cell described?
The cell is described as highly efficient, utilizing dual-sensor robotics and photogrammetry to double the data recording speed while maintaining high resolution.
What role does fringe technology play in the system?
Fringe technology is the core method used to generate 3D images by projecting and encoding patterns onto objects, allowing cameras to reconstruct the surface geometry.
What are the identified future prospects for this technology?
Future applications include mass production line inspections and the implementation of automated feedback loops that allow the measuring system to correct production machines directly upon detecting failures.
Why are tactile systems still relevant today?
Tactile systems remain essential because certain surface properties, such as high gloss, transparency, or specific materials, pose significant challenges for optical sensors.
What is the primary challenge for optical systems mentioned in the conclusion?
The main challenge is the massive amount of data generated, which requires complex filtering, interpretation, and processing capabilities.
- Arbeit zitieren
- Anonym (Autor:in), 2017, Fully Automated Measuring Cell in the Automotive Industry, München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/438286
