New GLOBAL S CMM Offers Advanced Solutions for Enhanced Productivity

Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence today announced the release of the GLOBAL S measuring solution, the first in an Enhanced Productivity Series (EPS) leveraging the Hexagon portfolio of smart technologies including user experience adaptations, enhanced software and advanced eco-friendly options. The EPS utilises these technologies to simplify tasks related to the creation, execution and analysis of measurement routines. This initiative offers a complete package to the quality engineer creating the measurement routine, the operator executing the inspection and the quality manager analysing the data that will be used to improve processes in the production workflow. The GLOBAL S is the ideal solution for all operations requiring higher productivity in dimensional inspection, like the automotive, aerospace, general and precision manufacturing industries.

PC-DMIS software enhancements allow common tasks such as the selection of probe tips and the import of files to take place three- to eight-times faster than existing solutions. Further improvements such as feature sensor mapping allow the user to associate sensors to features faster when importing inspection plans. The GLOBAL S with Chrome precision level utilises the coordinate measuring machine’s (CMM’s) hardware enhancements to offer superior accuracy at the highest scanning speed. Operators benefit from faster scanning measurement of both predefined and non-predefined paths and optimised path trajectories for faster part-program execution. Using the eco-friendly feature, Eco Mode+, there is a 90% reduction in compressed air consumption when the machine is in idle state. The CMM solution can save up to 25% of compressed air cost under machine standard operating conditions.

GLOBAL S operators will benefit from the new PC-DMIS Inspect option for program selection and execution. This easy-to-use interface within PC-DMIS allows the operator ‘one click’ measurement routine selection. Automated solutions are also provided, ensuring reliable integrations and efficient data flow management. Messaging lights and the ergonomic jogbox provide an enhanced operator experience. Machine alerts regarding temperature, humidity, vibrations, and unexpected stoppage are also available via the PULSE monitoring system.

“The launch of the GLOBAL S is another step towards the future of smart manufacturing,” said Ingo Lindner, Global Product Line Manager, Stationary CMMs at Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence. “Utilising our smart quality products, we can now enable advanced data flow management and at-a-glance data visualisation that delivers the robust digital thread that quality managers need to drive productivity and profitability goals.”

The GLOBAL S is available via local Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence commercial operations and dealers.

Germany’s national institute for metrology, the Federal Physical-Technical Institute (PTB), is equipping its new metrological expertise centre for wind energy systems in Braunschweig with a Leitz PMM-G gantry coordinating measuring machine (CMM) from Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence.

PTB has chosen to continue its successful partnership with Hexagon, which was focused during EVeQT – its latest project with the University of Bremen Institute for Metrology, Automation and Quality Science (BIMAQ), which aims to increase the availability and quality of drive train components and gearing for wind energy systems.

PTB’s new high-accuracy CMM is equipped for multisensor measuring tasks through the SENMATION intelligent sensor automation system, which enables the use of tactile and optical sensors in a single automated measurement process. The calibration of master gears using the new system will set important physical bases for carrying out precise measurements and returning the standardised measurement back to the international SI unit of the metre.

“We are excited to be working with PTB again on another critical project,” says Dr.-Ing. Felix Balzer, Software Developer for Special Geometries at Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence. “The goal of EVeQT is to gauge measurement uncertainty in the order of less than 10 µm for large gearing. The teams at both PTB and BIMAQ are fully focused on promoting accuracy and quality within manufacturing. Being able to provide the Leitz PMM-G 50.40.20 with SENMATION and QUINDOS measurement software as a complete solution which meets their exacting standards brings immense satisfaction.”

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.