Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence Announces New System for Carbon Composite Inspection Using Apodius 3D Technology

Leading metrology and manufacturing solution specialist Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence recently launched its Composite Inspection System for the ROMER Absolute Arm with Integrated Scanner (SI). Based on new Apodius 3D technology, this combined hardware and software application package offers advanced inspection and analysis of lightweight carbon-fibre components at an unprecedented level of speed and detail.

The system comprises HP-C-V3D Apodius Vision Sensor camera-based scanning hardware – designed to fit simply to a ROMER Absolute Arm with Integrated Scanner – combined with the custom-built Apodius Explorer 3D real-time software package. Together, these parts deliver high-definition fibre orientation and geometry measurement and complete three-dimensional model creation and analysis, allowing for actual-to-target value comparison and the capacity to detect, document and classify previously difficult to define composite production errors.

Combined with the ROMER Absolute Arm SI, which acts as a global reference system for the data collected by the sensor, the Composite Inspection System represents an unmatched solution for the inspection of carbon-fibre components.

“The experience and measurement expertise of Hexagon has allowed us to successfully develop a new dimension of flexibility for composite inspection,” said Alexander Leutner, Managing Director of Apodius. “Until now, three-dimensional digitisation has required the sensor to be robot-mounted. With the technology of the ROMER Absolute Arm we’ve been able to deliver portable hand-guided composite inspection for the first time, resulting in a much faster and more convenient digitisation process.”

“We’re really excited about this new inspection solution for composite component producers,” said Stephan Amann, Business Director for Portable Measuring Arms at Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence. “New applications for carbon-fibre are emerging all the time. Technology like the Composite Inspection System, which brings the established strengths of the ROMER Absolute Arm range together with the sensor and software expertise of Apodius, can drive that growth even further. What we’re looking at is a collaboration that’s produced an unmatched quality assurance solution that’s exactly what the sector needs to keep growing.”

Compatible with all ROMER Absolute Arm SI models, the Composite Inspection System is available to order worldwide from today through local Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence sales offices. Shipping will commence immediately.

Hexagon AB has completed the transfer of the metrology services business of MICRO-TOP Consulting, Engineering & Service S.R.L. to Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence.

Founded in 1991, MICRO-TOP offers complete solutions in metrology from consultancy, equipment supply and a variety of services. Based in the Romanian capital, Bucharest, the company employs 24 people and operates an ISO17025 accredited calibration laboratory. MICRO-TOP has been selling and supporting Hexagon equipment for over twenty years and holds authorised dealer status.

The transaction will facilitate the foundation of a Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence commercial operation at the MICRO-TOP premises in Bucharest, with the company’s employees joining the Hexagon team. The new Precision Centre will continue to offer sales and support for the complete portfolio of Hexagon metrology and manufacturing technology. MICRO-TOP will continue to share the site, operating as an independent entity to honour existing warranties on non-Hexagon equipment.

“Providing local services and support for our customers is a top priority for our company,” said Norbert Hanke, President and CEO of Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence. “MICRO-TOP has been a trusted partner of ours for a number of years now, and we are delighted to bring their expertise and knowledge of the Romanian market on board as we open our first commercial operation and premises in the country.”

Hexagon and MICRO-TOP will also exhibit together in Hall A, Booth B12 at TIB Bucharest, the Bucharest International Trade Fair, which runs from 12 to 15 October 2016 at the ROMEXPO Centre.

Additions to Optiv Performance line broaden application potential with larger measurement range

Leading metrology and manufacturing solution provider Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence today unveiled its latest multisensor coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), the new Optiv Performance 663 and 664 Dual Z.

The multisensor concept of the Optiv Performance line enables a variety of sensor configurations for tactile and contactless measuring and scanning tasks in a single system. Different workpiece features can be inspected by the appropriate sensors without reclamping, saving valuable measuring time.

Based on the same technology as the highly-successful Optiv Performance 443, the new CMMs feature low-vibration granite construction, precise mechanical linear guides on all axes, backlash-free precision drives, and integrated temperature compensation – resulting in a level of structural quality that means the machines can be used close to production. With the Optiv Performance 663 boasting a measurement range of 610 x 610 x 305 mm and the Optiv Performance 664 taking the Z-direction range up to 405 mm, the new CMMs further increase the range of parts that can be inspected.

To ensure optimal use of the entire measurement volume, the new Optiv Performance models can be equipped with Hexagon’s Optiv Dual Z option, giving them two independent vertical axes for the optical and tactile sensors. This prevents the inactive sensor from impeding machine movement, so features deep within the workpiece remain accessible for easier part programming and the risk of collisions is minimal. Optiv Dual Z technology also enables the use of a motorised indexable probe head as a carrier for the tactile sensor.

The Optiv Performance 663 and 664 Dual Z also offer a simple and quick solution for measuring tasks involving rotationally symmetrical workpieces. Features distributed around the circumference of the part are made accessible by clamping in the workpiece using the CNC rotary axis. This Optiv Dual Rotary option allows the entire rotary axis to swivel on an additional axis.

“Our customers are increasingly asking for versatile equipment and the new Optiv Performance 663 and 664 Dual Z models were created to fulfil this exact need,” said Wolfram Fröhlich, Commercial Product Manager at Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence. “It is a futureproof measuring system capable of handling a variety of different measuring and testing tasks. The innovative Optiv Dual Z and Optiv Dual Rotary options help CMM users to find the ideal positioning of sensors and the workpiece for measurement performance beyond current limits.”

Also available as an option on the Optiv Performance 663 and 664 Dual Z is Hexagon’s CMM monitoring system MMS PULSE. Using a network of sensors to monitor temperature, vibrations, humidity and machine status, MMS PULSE provides machine operators with a more complete picture of the environment when results are obtained.

The Optiv Performance 663 and 664 Dual Z CMMs are available worldwide from today. More information is available through local Hexagon commercial operations and dealers.

The First Measurement Work Cell to Seamlessly Integrate all Four Pillars of Automation: Flexibility, Footprint, Throughput and Performance in One Automated Solution.

Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence recently announced its new automated measurement work cell, the 360º Flexible Measurement Cell (360º FMC). Developed by Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence Integrated Solutions Business Unit, the 360º FMC is the first automated measurement work cell to seamlessly deliver all four pillars of automation in one solution: flexibility, footprint, throughput and performance. The 360º FMC is ideally suited for automotive and aero structure applications, including powertrain, and closure panel fabrication to name a few uses for the solution. An informational video can be found here.

The 360º FMC solution is built on commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) work cell systems integrated with Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence measurement solutions. This synergy of external devices, products, processes and systems packaged in a COTS format makes these work cells easily customizable and quick to install. The 360º FMC solution enhances the manufacturing process by seamlessly delivering actionable information. The power of the 360º Flexible Measurement Cell is that intelligence measurement systems rapidly return operational data to organizations, enabling fabricators to benefit from a truly data-driven manufacturing process.

“The 360º FMC automated measurement solution represents a complete synergy of the core strengths of Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence, and it is leading the way toward the Smart Factory. As manufacturers advance toward Industry 4.0, intelligent, data-driven solutions like the 360º FMC are making the transition easy,” states Jeff Perry, Director of Integrated Solutions, Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence. “The shop-hardened, innovative COTS systems will serve the needs of forward-thinking customers transitioning to smart production for greater productivity and the compelling cost savings derived from using real-time data.”

The 360º FMC is scalable, portable and modular. The solution is offered in three configurations, ready for in line, near line or off line applications, and is easily adapted to any production space. Solutions are easily scalable as required by specific part size and measurement tasks. The 360º FMC solution provides an easily adaptable solution for changing manufacturing priorities and production demands. The 360º FMC is easily moved and configured to easily adjust to evolving manufacturing needs.

Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence North America today announced its Integrated Solutions Business group will unveil a new-to-the-market Automation solution at IMTS (International Manufacturing Technology Show) 2016, McCormick Place, Chicago, IL from 12 to 16 September 2016. This groundbreaking series of data-driven solutions will feature robotics integrated with world-class metrology technologies. The specialized product line enables on-demand access to real-time factory floor data for predictive manufacturing in Industry 4.0 environments.

Hexagon will also highlight recently introduced products that will be demonstrated throughout the week. The new product lineup at IMTS includes the portable ROMER Absolute Arm 77 Series, the Leica Absolute Scanner LAS-20-8 laser scanner, the ultra-fast BLAZE 600M blue light scanner, the AICON PrimeScan scanner line, the GLOBAL Advantage HTA (High Throughput & Accuracy) designed for aerospace compression blade measurement, and the GLOBAL EVO coordinate measuring machine (CMM) created in collaboration with the internationally-renowned industrial design house Pininfarina. In addition, Hexagon will exhibit its full complement of software, hardware, and accessories that are shaping smart change in manufacturing worldwide.

In Booth E-5202, Hexagon will also showcase a full-sized Airbus EC130 Helicopter and an official racecar from Hendrick Motorsports, winner of a record 11 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championships. Hexagon partners in collaborative technology development and problem solving with Hendrick Motorsports’ engineering team.

Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence helps industrial manufacturers develop the disruptive technologies of today and the life-changing products of tomorrow. As a leading metrology and manufacturing solution specialist, our expertise in sensing, thinking and acting – the collection, analysis and active use of measurement data – gives our customers the confidence to increase production speed and accelerate productivity while enhancing product quality.

Through a network of local service centres, production facilities and commercial operations across five continents, we are shaping smart change in manufacturing to build a world where quality drives productivity.

Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence is part of Hexagon, a leading global provider of information technologies that drive productivity and quality across geospatial and industrial enterprise applications.

Hexagon’s solutions integrate sensors, software, domain knowledge and customer workflows into intelligent information ecosystems that deliver actionable information. They are used in a broad range of vital industries.

Hexagon (Nasdaq Stockholm: HEXA B) has more than 16,000 employees in 46 countries and net sales of approximately 3.0bn EUR.

PC-DMIS 2016 continues to set the standard for measurement software in every application.Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence today launched PC-DMIS 2016, the latest edition of the world’s most popular measurement software. This release introduces new tools and technologies to help metrology equipment users collect, evaluate, manage and present actionable manufacturing information in more effective ways, delivering maximum value for any manufacturer.

PC-DMIS 2016 offers overall performance improvements and major enhancements for measurement strategies and complex inspection tasks. CAD and graphics improvements help users take full advantage of embedded GD&T, offering one-click inspection routine generation and added validation functionality to notify the inspector of possible problems in the model before they become actual problems in the measurement process. A new section cut tool is ideal for sheet metal, aerospace and medical applications, or anywhere that surfaces require fast and reliable measurements based on fixed cross-sectional relationships to a coordinate system. PC-DMIS 2016 also makes it easier for users to get cross-section data quickly by moving the pointer along a section cut to see deviations in real time and clicking on any spot that needs reporting.

“PC-DMIS 2016 delivers workflow improvements for faster measurement routine generation and enhanced measurement strategy algorithms to maximise confidence in the results,” said Ken Woodbine, President of the Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence software division. “Each enhancement offers maximum speed through your day-to-day tasks with compressed workflows, while intelligent automation increases confidence in your final result. The results are increased productivity in your metrology operation and maximum confidence for your data-driven manufacturing processes.”

Application performance has been optimised for speeding up everyday tasks like opening and executing measurement routines, copy and paste, and report printing. Feature-Based Measurement and Mini-Routines options have been simplified, making them faster and easier to use. Also, new path line options allow the user to assign different colours to path lines to differentiate between moves, probe rotations, and hit points providing quick reference and easier adjustments. A new Measurement Strategy editor offers customisable parameter values for each feature type to use when importing inspection plans or create a Quick Features.

New Versions of HP-S-X1 Series Scanning Probes Offer Better System Flexibility and Robustness

Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence has released new versions of its HP-S-X1 series of compact probes for tactile scanning. As well as featuring a new bearing system for better joint repeatability, HP-S-X1 range probes now accept longer horizontal styli for improved flexibility – with no need to change modules.

Featuring small external dimensions and supporting stylus lengths of up to 225 mm, HP-S-X1 probes enable coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) to take measurements of features deep inside a workpiece. Magnetic interfaces allow automated stylus changes, and they support all standard inspection modes including single-point contact measurement, self-centring measurement and continuous high-speed scanning, providing quick and precise data acquisition for all kinds of surface contours.

The HP-S-X1 range of tactile scanning probes includes the HP-S-X1C centrally-mounted version for high-stability in measurement and the HP-S-X1S and HP-S-X1H models, which offer the option to use an indexing probe head for better part accessibility. In the latest versions, the HP-S-X1C and HP-S-X1H models accept horizontal styli of up to 100 mm, while the HP-S-X1S can now take horizontal styli of up to 20 mm without changing modules. A standard interface allows all the probes to be used on Hexagon probe heads.

“The latest versions of the HP-S-X1 scanning probe have been redesigned to improve durability, and also allow better setup flexibility without the need to change modules,” explains Micha Neininger, Product Manager – Sensors at Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence. “Usually, to get this range of stylus configuration options, you would need a multiple-module system. With the HP-S-X1 range, users save the time it takes to change modules, so they are always able to apply the best configuration for the job, without compromise.”

The latest versions of the HP-S-X1 compact scanning probe range are available to order worldwide from today. More information is available through local Hexagon commercial operations and dealers.

Hexagon AB, a leading global provider of information technologies that drive productivity and quality across geospatial and industrial enterprise applications, recently announced the acquisition of AICON 3D Systems, a leading provider of optical and portable non-contact 3D measuring systems for industrial manufacturing.

Founded in 1990 and based in Braunschweig, Germany, AICON has been meeting the measurement needs of renowned automotive manufacturers and companies in the aerospace, shipbuilding, renewable energy and mechanical engineering markets for over 25 years. Its technology portfolio includes portable coordinate measuring machines for universal applications and specialised optical 3D measuring systems that enable efficient, high-precision monitoring, quality assurance and control in manufacturing production.

With over 140 employees, AICON has a direct presence in Germany, subsidiaries in China, Korea, Japan, and the US and a network of resellers worldwide supported by its field support resources.

“AICON is a recognised brand with strong core technical competence across its development teams and its scanner portfolio is a strategic fit,” said Hexagon President and CEO Ola Rollén. “We also see opportunities for international expansion of AICON’s wider portfolio throughout Hexagon’s global footprint.”

Also, the CEOs of AICON 3D Systems, Carl-Thomas Schneider and Werner Bösemann, further commented: “Joining Hexagon is a great opportunity to bring our first-class AICON scanner products to a wide range of customers worldwide.”

AICON will be fully consolidated as of April. The company’s turnover for 2015 amounted to approximately 19 MEUR.

Intelligent sensor automation system also launches on Leitz PMM-C coordinate measuring machines

Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence has announced new functionality for the SENMATION universal sensor interface as the system rolls out to Leitz PMM-C coordinate measuring machines (CMMs). SENMATION enables users to overcome complex measurement challenges on a single CMM by deploying the right sensor at the right time.

Enabling the fully-automatic exchange of sensors within part programs, SENMATION is designed to make programming easier while maximising machine uptime and productivity. The upgraded version adds the HP-S-X5 HD heavy-duty analogue scanning probe to the SENMATION toolset in addition to the existing offering of scanning, optical and vision sensors. Accepting styli of up to 800 mm and 650 g, HP-S-X5 HD offers better part accessibility. It will also enable SENMATION to handle the PROFILER R tactile roughness sensor in the near future, further extending the functionality of the CMM.

Based on a universal sensor switch and intelligent sensor module and directly integrated into the CMM quill, SENMATION uses a mechanical loading system to engage the sensor without operator intervention. A built-in probe identification system recognises the sensor immediately and checks its status, so there is no need to recalibrate between exchanges. The data gathered by each sensor is contained within the same software session, enabling users to gather a comprehensive overview of the workpiece using the best sensor available for every aspect and feature.

“SENMATION gives customers real flexibility, enabling them to work at speed and with confidence in their results. We are very excited to introduce this outstanding technology on the Leitz PMM-C.” said Micha Neininger, Sensors Product Manager at Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence.

The Leitz PMM-C line of high-performance CMMs combines ultra-high accuracy with unmatched machine dynamics. Fast data gathering and advanced high-speed scanning results in extremely short cycle times and high throughput for efficient process control, and SENMATION adds a new level of adaptability to these CMMs.

As well as HP-S-X5 HD, SENMATION accepts the motorised indexing probe head HH-AS-2.5 with HP-S-X1 scanning sensor, the HP-S-X5 3D scanning probe, and the PRECITEC LR optical sensor for non-contact measurements on matte, reflective, glass or transparent material. Initially launched on the Leitz PMM-Xi, the system is now also available with new orders of the Leitz PMM-C placed via local Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence commercial operations and dealers.

PC-DMIS 2015.1 continues to set the standard for measurement software in every application

Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence today launched PC-DMIS 2015.1, a significant update of the world’s most popular measurement software for the collection, evaluation, management and presentation of actionable manufacturing information. This release introduces new tools and technologies to help users of Hexagon’s metrology devices and a wide range of other measurement equipment deliver maximum value for any manufacturer. PC-DMIS 2015.1 offers overall performance improvements and major enhancements for measurement strategies and complex inspection tasks.

Many improvements have been made to the AutoFeature measurement strategies, including the addition of a new Touch Trigger Probe Free Form Plane strategy, which will appeal to many users of touch sensors. Additionally, QuickFeature strategies continue to evolve, offering unparalleled speed in fulfilling the measurement task. Improved probe animation aids offline programming efficiency and new QuickGD&T selection speeds measurement routine building by creating all necessary features, datum definitions and dimensions with a single click.

“PC-DMIS 2015.1 brings several added and improved capabilities based on the real-world user feedback we get from our PC-DMIS customer forum as well as our Technical Support teams,” said Ken Woodbine, President of the Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence Software Division. “This release is focused on productivity gains and continues our evolution towards increased customer value in every area of the metrology process. These include measurement routine creation and validation, deployment, and data analysis. Also, the latest hardware innovations from Hexagon are seamlessly integrated, maximising total system efficiencies. PC-DMIS 2015.1 now supports the Travel Rack X1V tool changer innovation and adds improved rotary table error mapping for maximised accuracy on highly complex measurement tasks.”

Other areas of focus in this version include illumination calibration for multisensor systems, and point cloud measurement tools including a Cross Section Slide Show viewer. According to Woodbine, “Non-contact devices are proliferating, and our intent is to offer the best-in-class tools for optimising the information extracted from point clouds, regardless of the source. This has value across all our primary segments and many applications, whether in automotive, aerospace, electronics or medical. Therefore non-contact will continue to be a primary focus for us as we evolve the product further.”