Product category:
Coordinate measuring machines (CMM) and software
News Release from: Mitutoyo (UK) | Subject: Cadpak-Win software
Edited by the Manufacturingtalk Editorial
Team on 01 July 2002
CAD models prepared for CMM checking
off-line
Software allows CAD models to be imported, manipulated and programmed off-line ready for CMM inspection without having to use a DMIS translator.
Mitutoyo has developed its latest Cadpak-Win software is conjunction with Matra Datavision Designed to run in conjunction with existing Geopak-Win software, it allows CAD (Computer Aided Design) models to be imported, manipulated and programmed off-line ready for CMM inspection using Geopak-Win without requiring a DMIS translator
This article was originally published on Manufacturingtalk on 24 Mar 2005 at 8.00am (UK)
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This approach allows optimum use of the CMM, minimising downtime, and contributing to reduced product development cycles - inspection routines having been introduced at an early stage.
The use of CAD models, as opposed to component drawings or actual components, allows CMM measurement programs to be generated remotely in the product development cycle before actual prototype parts are available.
By using the same screen selections as Geopak-Win, the user can perform the same measuring tasks off-line as well as on-line providing greater ease of use and improved productivity.
Further reading
No refocus needed to check stepped parts
A manual vision measuring machine features double-telecentric optics combined with such a large focal depth that workpieces of varying thickness can be measured without refocusing.
Automated machines test fine fibres
Producer of miniature, automated fibre-strength testing machines uses a scanning laser micrometer to help rapidly evaluate tensile properties of fibres down to 5 micron.
In operation, a CAD model is loaded into the viewer window where it can be easily manipulated using conventional CAD tools such as zoom, rotate and pan functions.
Other tools include the ability to create life-like shaded images to help visualisation, as well as a transparent option to give sub-sectional views of the workpiece.
Snapshots can be produced to ensure correct orientation of the workpiece on the CMM.
Cadpak-Win can provide probe path simulations.
As measurement programs are being constructed, they can be simulated to check probe clearance, allowing constant assessment of probe path and intermediate points.
Collisions are graphically identified, the program is highlighted and edited to allow error free measurement programs to be created.
Programs can also be developed to change probe in mid-measurement when selected by the CMM operator to suit the job in hand.
Similarly, a clearance height function allows users to program features, leaving Cadpak-Win to calculate a safe movement.
The probe will automatically retract to a safe 'clearance height'.
For complex components, the RPS (Reference Point System) function automatically aligns measured points or elements of the workpiece to the correct CAD co-ordinates.
The user does not need to know where the datum is or have to calculate datum shifts or rotations.
Cadpak-Win is just one of a suite of CMM software packages developed by Mitutoyo and Matra Division to help provide embedded quality at every stage of a product's development. Request a free brochure from Mitutoyo (UK) ...
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