10 Requirements for production measurement technology – Part 1

If production measurement technology was human, it would be classified as rather demanding, requiring highly accurate and fast optical 3D measurements while asking for easy handling. High cost-efficiency with fast ROI and production suitability as well as automation are self-evident features too.

Thus, any measuring instrument aiming to play a key role in a production environment must fulfill a range of requirements to enable efficient production without rejects. Modern production facilities also ask for integrated production strategies according to Industry 4.0, laying the foundation for self-controlling production by their choice of measuring equipment.

So, let’s get practical and have a closer look at the first feature that is to be taken into account when choosing the right measurement instrument.

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#1 MEASURING INSTRUMENT CAPABILITY

It’s almost too obvious to say, but not as easy as it may look: Measuring instruments must be capable of completing the measurement task adequately. Thus, it is necessary to verify the instrument’s measuring capability and accuracy. This is usually determined based on predefined Cg and Cgk values.*

Other important factors in the assessment of measurement quality include high repeatability of measurement results, traceability to national and international calibration standards, compliance with global ISO standards, and low measurement uncertainties.

And yes, there are instruments that fulfill these requirements. Just go ask the team at Kendrion, international supplier of automotive components, who use our InfiniteFocus system for the dimensional measurement of valves while benefitting from reduced rejection rates.?This way, Kendrion is able to measure the roundness of valve seats in a repeatable and traceable manner for optimal sealing.

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* The g in Cg and Cgk stands for gauge or gage, which are capability indices for measuring instruments. The dispersion caused by the measuring equipment (and for Cgk additionally the displacement) is compared with the permitted tolerance or process dispersion (depending on the formula).